Elyjana Roach

I grew up in Porirua and my whole life I heard that this city was full of potential and opportunity, and I want to see that realised...

Degree: Master of Architecture

Pasifika heritage: Samoa

I grew up in Porirua and my whole life I heard that this city was full of potential and opportunity, and I want to see that realised.

I remember being in awe of the Pataka Art + Museum building as a kid. I didn’t know why exactly at the time, I just did. Studying Architecture at Victoria University of Wellington has taught me the words I needed to express why I loved the space and now I know a new language that I and other designers understand.

Whenever I think of the architect who designed the building, I think man, his thoughts changed a city. He’ll never know how much his work has inspired me, and I hope my work does the same for someone else. I want to create something that will last longer than me.

Writing a Master’s thesis in this field has made me critical of the profession. People usually think that architecture is only about big flash buildings for big businesses and rich people. But it’s not. For me, it’s about what structures and spaces can do and how generous it can be towards people and communities—in the ways it provides spaces for families and communities to enjoy and the way it acknowledges and showcases the beauty and history of a place. I want to design spaces that do that.

The houses we live in, the malls, cafes, museums, roads, even the parks—this is our built environment. I want to be a part of the process of building this environment. I want all our locals to be as well, which is why I, with the help of many people, created a temporary pop-up space, The City That Builds in Porirua.

This space included playful interactives, such as an enormous map where you can pinpoint the city’s hidden hot spots, to get people involved with the city’s future. We asked locals to showcase and celebrate their favourite parts of Porirua and to imagine ways our city could be improved. It’s great to put some of my thesis work into practice.

My advice for “niu” students is to BE YOU. But also, don’t worry if you adopt someone else’s style or way of doing things, because when you do, you will find ways to make it your own. Also, keep “Not Many” by Scribe on speed dial to remind yourself that not many dudes you know roll like this.