Bull O'Sullivan Architecture

Bull O'Sullivan Architecture stands as one of New Zealand's most distinguished design practices, led by founding partners Andrew Bull and Michael O'Sullivan. The firm operates from dual offices in Auckland and Lyttelton, maintaining an unwavering commitment to quality that extends across residential, educational, public, and commercial projects regardless of scale.

The practice's design philosophy centers on the belief that built environments directly influence quality of life. This conviction manifests in meticulous attention to every element, from urban planning to door handles, reflecting the understanding that tactile details shape daily human experience. The practice believes the quality of a project is not necessarily related to how much it costs, but rather how wisely the resources of time and money are spent. The setting of standards is more about an attitude of mind in defining goals and honouring commitments. In that sense the most important things have not changed, particularly the philosophy of quality and optimism at the most personal of levels.

Bull O'Sullivan Architecture demonstrates particular sensitivity to physical context, climate, and cultural specificity, ensuring each project responds authentically to its place. The practice explains why no detail is too small in its importance and why the same amount of care and attention will be lavished on the design of a door handle, a tap, or a piece of furniture. These, after all, are the elements of the environment that we physically touch every day of our lives.

The firm's excellence has garnered significant recognition, including multiple NZIA National Architecture Awards and the prestigious Sir Ian Athfield Award for Housing. Notable projects span from the award-winning Lyttelton Studio Retreat and Toto Whare to the culturally significant Tongan meeting house Lesieli Tonga, Keene Family Home, Waterhouse Home, Kauri Home, and the recent Chapel of St. Thérèse of Lisieux. The current team includes senior architects Glenn Watt and Sean Flanagan, alongside talented designers Brad Bonnington, Sou Muy Ly, Annabel Standidge, Ying Yan Zhou, Alina Domanova, Emma Rea, Nick O'Connell, and Paea Wolfgramm.

The philosophy and values that inspire every Bull O'Sullivan Architecture project remain the same regardless of scale or size. The practice maintains that project quality derives not from budget magnitude but from judicious resource allocation, establishing standards through commitment and mindset rather than expenditure alone.