A registered architect in Aotearoa New Zealand, Wallace brings more than 20 years of experience in architecture and urban design to his new role. He has worked with Studio Pacific for nearly two decades, helping to shape the practice’s collaborative culture and design ethos while also showing a strong commitment to social and environmental sustainability, with a particular focus on education and community-driven projects across the motu.

Wallace’s extensive experience in master planning and architectural and landscape design has seen him foster deep relationships with mana whenua and actively contribute to the integration of te ao Māori in the studio’s design practice. As a co-founder of Te Waharua, Studio Pacific’s Māori design and support group, he has championed design approaches that reflect the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

Beyond design, Wallace has been instrumental in the studio’s research and innovation initiatives. He co-founded the studio’s research group, has co-authored papers on building performance and supports technical reviews across projects.

Current managing director Nick Barratt-Boyes and Wallace are working closely with the practice’s leadership group to ensure a seamless transition. Barratt-Boyes co-founded Studio Pacific in 1992 alongside Evžen Novák and Stephen McDougall, and in stepping down from the managing director role, he will continue to be actively involved in project delivery and serve as an executive director on the Board.

Barratt-Boyes says that while leading Studio Pacific has been an incredible privilege, “James’ passion for architecture, his thoughtful leadership and his clear vision for the future make him the ideal person to guide the practice as we move beyond our founder-led era into second-generation leadership.”

Helen Anderson, Chair of the Board, says James’ appointment reflects the Board’s confidence in his ability to lead Studio Pacific into its next chapter. “At the same time, we acknowledge and thank Nick for his outstanding leadership and ongoing contributions to the practice.”

This leadership transition aligns with the Studio’s long-term vision, drawing inspiration from the whakataukī, “Whāia te iti kahurangi, ki te tūohu koe, me he maunga teitei” — Pursue that which is precious, and do not be deterred by anything less than a lofty mountain.

With this new chapter, Studio Pacific says it is reaffirming its commitment to design excellence, sustainability and collaboration and the practice congratulates Wallace on his appointment and extends its gratitude to Barratt-Boyes for his dedication and leadership.