1 December 2016
MEDIA RELEASE
Context Architects

Architect brings international perspective to Christchurch Urban Design panel

A collaborative approach to development is important for Christchurch to create the best city for future generations, believes Context Architects’ Heather Blewett, who has just been appointed as a member of the city’s Urban Design Panel (UDP).

“Thoughtful design transforms the experiences of people living and working in urban communities, as well as providing strong returns for developers,’” says Blewett.

Architect Blewett previously worked on large-scale residential and mixed-use urban regeneration projects in the UK, and has led a range of commercial and residential projects in Christchurch, Auckland, and Queenstown. In Christchurch, these include a proposed 215-plus home lifestyle village, and a new masterplan for a mixed-use development close to the central city.

“Prescriptive planning rules alone will not necessarily encourage higher quality new developments,” she says. “Collaboration gets the best commercial returns and the best urban design outcomes. I value what can be achieved when developers, government, residents, architects, landscape designer, engineers and others work together from the beginning.”

Recognising clients’ business drivers, and the aspirations of the wider community and other key stakeholders is crucial. “I am passionate about the value to the economy and the community that excellent urban design brings.”

Context Architects’ Christchurch principal Andrew Burton added: “Creating a strong sense of place and connecting people and the built environment is vital to reinforce the emerging character that Christchurch is establishing. We’re thrilled that Heather has been selected to join the panel, and believe the panel will continue to make a significant contribution to the city, says Burton.

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