Full circle
Three Sixty Architecture has been at the drawing board for some of the city’s most inspiring projects, as Christchurch’s architectural soul reemerges.
It’s hard to miss the changing face of Christchurch, with almost every corner of the city impacted, and Three Sixty Architecture’s projects cover them all. Director Dean Cowell says being part of this regeneration is both personal and profound.
“This is our home – the place we live, work, and raise families,” he says. “Having the opportunity to help shape the way the city looks and feels is a real privilege. Every project is a chance to add something positive, to create spaces that people can enjoy and that contribute to a city which feels welcoming, confident, and ready for the future.”
A key aspect of Three Sixty’s work is working with existing structures. Dean says that revitalising heritage buildings has been a cornerstone of reshaping the city.
“Heritage buildings carry a city’s stories and memories. They connect generations and provide continuity, which is especially important in Christchurch, where so much was lost,” he explains. “By retaining and reimagining these places, we can protect the city’s character while giving the buildings new purpose.”
Among their standout projects is the Public Trust Building – a cherished landmark brought back to life. “Restoring it allowed us to blend old and new,” says Dean. “Seeing it active again, contributing to the city’s life, has been incredibly rewarding.”
That philosophy of transformation also shines in projects like The Welder, where an industrial shell became a vibrant health and wellbeing hub. “Existing buildings always come with quirks,” Dean says, “but that’s often where the best opportunities arise.”
Alongside their work on commercial projects, Three Sixty’s portfolio extends to bespoke homes, rooted in collaboration and individuality.
“A home is one of the most personal projects you can design,” he says. “Each client and site brings something different, so we aim to create homes that are distinctive, timeless, and deeply tied to both place and people.”
For Dean, Christchurch’s “new style” isn’t about uniformity but diversity – a city defined by resilience, creativity, and reinvention. “If there is a Christchurch style,” he reflects, “it’s one of finding new ways to move forward while still respecting where we’ve come from.”