Ngā Kōrero o Paparahi—Brittany Mark

For designer and changemaker Brittany Mark, the Faculty of Architecture and Design Innovation offered more than just a world-class design education—it gave her the freedom and encouragement to forge her own path.

“I was always fascinated by the intersection of design, systems, and politics,” she says. “Studying in the capital gave me access to policy and government, while the School of Design offered an environment that championed innovation and interdisciplinary thinking. It was the perfect place to centre design for social good.”

That combination of freedom and structure, paired with inspiring lecturers and real-world opportunities, helped Brittany shape a unique career. Now based in the United States, she’s working in the innovation space with global firm Arup, continuing a trajectory that began during her time at VUW.

“Moving to the US was a defining moment,” she reflects. “The opportunity came through my work with Arup in Aotearoa and the strong foundations I built at university. My thinking and curiosity were nurtured by the Design School—it’s where I learnt how to challenge systems and imagine alternatives.”

While her academic work was rigorous, it was the support to explore and experiment that had the biggest impact. “What I enjoyed most was the ability to craft my own path. The school encouraged us to research, to connect with other institutions, and most importantly, to think differently.”

A project that continues to resonate with her today is one that invited people to step away from their screens. “I designed a series of stools to celebrate the ancient experience of the ‘campfire’. Phones were hidden under the seat, and the idea was to create a space for organic conversation. It was about reinvigorating and celebrating ritual—something to influence social behaviour and norms. That was really the start of what I do now.”

Brittany’s work and worldview have remained grounded in the values she cultivated during her studies. One concept that particularly stuck was “commensality”—the act of sharing a meal and conversation. “I later co-directed Neighbourhood NZ, a not-for-profit that used this concept to build community connection. Design is not only about objects—it’s about people, places, and the systems and relationships that connect them."

Mentorship played a vital role, too. “Tim Miller, my master’s supervisor, really helped me chart my own course. He gave so much of himself to our success. And the MDI [Master of Design Innovation] cohort was close-knit—many of those people are still some of my closest friends today.”

As someone who has worked globally, Brittany recognises the challenge of adapting to different cultures while staying true to her values. "VUW taught me to stay open-minded, to challenge my own worldview, and approach design with humility. To commit to lifelong learning. You never know best—this mindset helps you be a good ally, and design with and alongside people, not just for them."

Looking to the future, Brittany sees design playing a vital role in shaping a more united Aotearoa. “The world is facing so many challenges, design can be a modality to union. We need to come together across disciplines and backgrounds and design a future that everyone can belong to.”

“I’m so proud to have gone to VUW. The faculty and staff are among the best in the world, and the lessons I learnt there continue to define the career and life I now have.”