In 2007, Grant Harris was director and senior architect at Ignite Architects in Auckland, leading large-scale civic and commercial projects. After 25 years working in the city, first with Warren and Mahoney, then Ignite, the long hours and daily commute began to take their toll. As the desire to step away from the hustle and bustle of Auckland life took hold, so too did the idea of a slower pace, a smaller team, and work more grounded in place.

That shift coincided with new opportunities in Northland, including early concept work on the Okara Stadium and a visitor centre proposal at Waitangi. Through that process, Grant connected with Ian Butt of Butt Design, a well-regarded local practice in Whangārei. Both were at pivotal moments in their careers, and soon the idea of forming a new, regionally based practice took root. With little more than mutual respect, complementary strengths, and a shared desire to do meaningful work, Harris Butt Architecture was formed. Though those early projects didn’t progress past concept, the partnership opened the door to a series of significant commissions, including Te Kōngahu Museum, Te Rau Aroha at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, and ultimately, the Hundertwasser Art Centre in Whangarei.

In 2016, Ian retired and Grant took on sole directorship. The practice is in its 18th year and has grown into a tight-knit, experienced team delivering residential, civic, cultural, and tertiary projects. From the beginning, the strength of the studio has come from the people behind it. Led by Grant Harris, with more than 50 years of experience, alongside Kerry Reyburn, who has been with the practice since its formation, Ben Brown, who joined soon after, and Todd Allen, now a key part of the team. As we approach our 20-year milestone, with nearly two decades behind us and a future of new challenges ahead, HB remains committed to delivering architecture that’s responsive, well-considered, and designed to stand the test of time.