An academic and Sustainable Design Lead at Warren and Mahoney, Emily is a dynamic force in advancing sustainable design and construction. Equipped with a PhD in embodied carbon from Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington she uses technical and data-driven research to shape highly sustainable, creative and beautiful architectural outcomes. Speaking clearly to the climate crisis through a low carbon language is one of her specialities.
What inspired your decision to study architecture?
I was 11 years old out walking the dogs with my Mum when I decided architecture was for me! I was inspired to study it because it sits at the intersection of art and science - two disciplines I’ve always enjoyed. Choosing architecture allowed me to keep a balanced yet diverse range of subjects during high school and university – which expanded my understanding of how to solve problems in different ways.
Architecture also offers a wide range of opportunities throughout your career. No two projects are ever the same – there’s aways something to learn and explore. It’s a dynamic and fulfilling career and one I’ve never regretted or felt unsatisfied with.
When and why did your career pathway veer towards sustainability and low carbon design?
It began at the end of my undergraduate degree when I undertook an embedded summer research project within an architectural practice. This experience deepened my passion for using data-driven approaches to inform sustainable design decisions that could be seamlessly integrated into the architectural process. It showed me the powerful role research and evidence play in shaping more responsible and effective design solutions.
I discovered the excitement of tackling complex problems and the satisfaction of contributing innovative solutions that add value to architectural projects.
Since then, in my role at Warren and Mahoney I’ve led five summer research projects - providing students with the same formative opportunities that shaped my career path.
Does our architectural community and building industry have an adequate climate change conscience?
The level of climate change awareness within the architectural community and building industry is steadily growing. More professionals are recognising the urgent need to address sustainability and are actively seeking ways to reduce the environmental impact of their work. However, there’s still significant room for growth and deeper commitment to fully integrate climate-conscious practices across the industry.
We’re not alone in facing these challenges and there’s a strong opportunity to look beyond our borders for solutions. By learning from other industries - such as fashion, food, aviation and agriculture – with their own unique approaches to climate change - we can unlock fresh ideas to advance sustainability. Embracing this cross-industry collaboration will be key to accelerating meaningful progress in our own sector.
Does the climate crisis provide new horizons for design and construction in Aotearoa?
The climate crisis means the future will bring different weather patterns to those we’ve experienced before - creating a real opportunity to rethink how our buildings respond and look. Designing with these changes in mind allows us to create spaces that are more resilient, functional and beautiful in a changing environment.
At the same time the urgent need for low carbon materials opens the door to developing a new architectural aesthetic. By embracing innovative, sustainable materials we can not only reduce emissions but also redefine what buildings look and feel like in Aotearoa’s unique context.
What data-driven insights do you use to propel a client towards low carbon strategies?
I focus on data-driven insights around embodied carbon and energy use, emphasising the importance of capturing and analysing this data as early as possible in the design process. Early access to accurate metrics allows us to identify key opportunities for reducing carbon footprints and make informed decisions that maximise sustainability outcomes throughout the project lifecycle.
What’s the most cost-effective way to embed sustainability and low carbon outcomes in commercial or residential buildings?
Get the project brief right from the very beginning and start testing sustainable strategies during the concept design phase. Early integration of sustainability goals helps identify the most impactful opportunities while avoiding costly changes later in the process.
Has there been a standout project for you in your career to date?
Working on the interiors for the Atlassian Headquarters in Sydney. The base build is set to be the world’s tallest hybrid timber building, and the interior fitout is on track to be one of the most sustainable globally. Being part of a project of this scale and aspiration has been inspiring. The project’s ambitious carbon reduction and circularity targets have challenged the entire design team to think differently, pushing us to explore innovative materials, systems and processes.
On a daily basis what excites you most about your work?
The variety! Working across every sector and building typology means I’m constantly exposed to new ideas, contexts and constraints which keeps my work fresh and engaging. My work pushes me – the constant learning and adaptation required not only makes my job stimulating but ensures I’m growing as a sustainability leader.
What is your favourite green building here in Aotearoa or overseas?
I have a soft spot for Mason Bros in Auckland as it was the first project I studied in my PhD, and I’ve spent lots of time in the building. My favourite moments are watching how the old and new elements interact as the light shifts throughout the day. Mason Bros is to me a beautiful example of how adaptive reuse can be approached with creativity and respect, resulting in something that feels both authentic and refreshingly new.