Architect Vaness Carswell has been appointed Jasmax‘s newest South Island principal and will co-lead the Christchurch studio along with principal Chris Jack.

CEO Sjoerd Post notes that Carswell has extensive experience in civic and cultural projects and a passion for people-centred design responses that “exceed expectations” when it comes to cultural and environmental outcomes.

“Vanessa’s extensive skillset, collaborative approach and design leadership will compliment fellow studio co-lead, Chris Jack’s expertise in urban, civic architecture and placemaking,” he says. “Her appointment will allow these two highly skilled principal architects to devote their energy to delivering design excellence across all of our South Island projects.”

Carswell currently sits on the New Zealand Property Council’s South Island Executive Board and was awarded the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) Outstanding Achievement in Design Award in 2016 for the restoration of the Isaac Theatre Royal, and in 2017, Vanessa was shortlisted by Ideolog as one of New Zealand’s most creative people.

“I enjoy the challenge of working across different sectors and typologies, but for me, the success of each project comes down to one thing – authentically reflecting the community they serve,” Vanessa says.