About

INTRODUCTION

Archijam Architecture is a Christchurch, New Zealand based architectural practice run by Jamie Irvine. 

I am a Registered Architect in New Zealand and bring 20 years of experience across the architecture and construction industries in both New Zealand and the UK. 

Throughout my career, I’ve developed strong design capability, deep technical and regulatory knowledge, and extensive experience in site and contract administration—skills that allow me to guide clients confidently from early concepts through to completed buildings.

FOR MY CLIENTS

I believe great architecture should elevate everyday life and create environments that truly serve the people who use them. For my clients, this means every project begins with a strong, relevant concept grounded in your needs, your site, and your aspirations. A clear design intent at the outset ensures that the vision carries through seamlessly—from the big ideas down to the finer details that shape how a space feels and functions.

I also understand that successful architecture must perform in the real world. It needs to meet regulatory requirements, respect budgets and timelines, and result in a building that is both beautiful and buildable. To achieve this, I prioritise clarity from day one: understanding the full scope of your project, defining outcomes early, and ensuring every decision aligns with your goals.

Throughout the design and construction process, I maintain open communication and close collaboration with clients, consultants, and contractors. My aim is to make the journey as smooth as possible for you—balancing design ambition with practical delivery—so you feel supported, informed, and confident at every stage.

MY EXPERIENCE

I hold a Bachelor of Architecture with First Class Honours and a Master of Architecture with Distinction from Victoria University of Wellington. My years working in London expanded my expertise across complex, high‑end residential projects, large‑scale mixed‑use developments and affordable housing. This exposure strengthened my passion for tackling challenging briefs and finding elegant, innovative solutions.

Since returning to New Zealand, I’ve delivered work ranging from single luxury homes to multi‑unit residential, aged care, social housing, cinemas, mixed‑use commercial and industrial projects. I’m experienced in every stage of a project—from feasibility studies and planning through to detailed design, documentation and construction.

I care deeply about collaboration and clear communication, and I bring strong interpersonal skills to every project. My goal is to make the process straightforward and enjoyable for my clients, ensuring that the vision is realised, the practical demands are met, and the outcome is a building that performs beautifully for the people who use it.

MY QUALIFICATIONS

Achieved UK & NZ Architect Registration

Post Graduate Diploma Professional Practice and Management (Merit) UK Registration Examinations

The Bartlett, UCL (ARB/RIBA Part III)

Masters of Architecture (with Distinction) 

Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand

Best Student Paper New Zealand Society for Earthquake Engineering Conference (NZSEE) 

for “Adequacy of Existing House Foundations for Resisting Earthquakes: the Cost-Benefit of Upgrading”

Bachelor of Architecture (1st Class Honours)

Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand

EQC Scholarship (New Zealand Earthquake Commission) 

for student completing Masters in Architecture Wellington City Council Award for Creativity and Innovation

FURTHER INFORMATION

 https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-irvine-architect/