20 | Helping to bridge the gap between vision and reality Dasha Tarasova: “We need diverse voices and perspectives to deliver housing that truly serves our communities.” PJM Project Management T T Karen Phelps “Every development is an opportunity to create lasting value for families and communities, not just buildings.” For Dasha Tarasova, a senior design and project development manager at PJM Project Management, being named as a finalist in the 2025 Auckland Property People Awards in the Women in Property category validates years of commitment to sustainable, community-focused development and championing diversity in the construction sector. “It’s an honour to be recognised amongst such talented professionals,” says Dasha. “This nomination reflects not just my work, but the collaborative efforts of everyone at PJM and the clients who trust us to deliver meaningful housing solutions for New Zealand communities.” As a NZIA-registered architect with a Master’s degree in architecture, at PJM Project Management Dasha leads the delivery of major developments, including the Housing Foundation’s Mangere West and Omokoroa residential projects totalling over $90 million in construction value, and delivering more than 120 affordable homes. “At PJM Project Management we don’t just manage tasks; we drive projects forward with creativity and precision,” explains Dasha. “Every development is an opportunity to create lasting value for families and communities, not just buildings.” Her approach integrates sustainability at every stage, with a particular focus on Homestar-rated developments that deliver longterm environmental and economic benefits. The NZ Housing Foundation Mangere West project, achieving a Homestar 6 rating, exemplifies this commitment to high-performance, affordable housing that serves communities for generations. Established in 2008, the company has grown from a one-person operation into a respected firm delivering over 50 projects annually. It specialises in government, comPROPERTY INDUSTRY mercial, community housing, hospitality, and multi-unit residential development – sectors where Dasha’s technical expertise and strategic leadership have proven invaluable. Prior to joining PJM Project Management, Dasha served as design manager at Development Advisory Services, where she was involved in major residential projects, including Longshore, Light Box and Elementum Apartments. Previously, she founded her own architectural practice, DDA Consultants, delivering projects ranging from a $5.5 million pharmaceutical facility to bespoke residential homes. “My experience across architecture, project management and development gives me a unique perspective,” she says. “I can bridge the gap between architectural vision and commercial reality, ensuring projects are both beautiful and deliverable.” Dasha is also a committed mentor, who has guided multiple architectural graduates to achieve NZRAB registration. This dedication to developing future talent addresses the gender imbalance in construction, along with strengthening the profession. “I’m passionate about creating pathways for others, especially women, to succeed in this industry,” she explains. “We need diverse voices and perspectives to deliver housing that truly serves our communities.” A defining personal achievement demonstrates her integrated approach to design and sustainability. While raising two young children, Dasha designed and built her own Homestar 6-rated family home in Long Bay, a practical expression of her belief that great housing must balance beauty, durability and liveability. “That project taught me so much about what families actually need from their homes,” says Dasha. “Every design decision had real consequences for daily life, and those lessons inform every development I work on. The effect of a healthy, dry, well-built home on the health of my children has been unbelievably positive.” Dasha aspires to influence housing delivery at a national scale, embedding sustainable principles across larger, more complex projects while continuing her mentorship work. “This finalist nomination energises me to keep pushing for better outcomes,” she says. “New Zealand faces significant housing challenges, and I’m committed to being part of the solution, delivering developments that stand the test of time and foster thriving communities.” Leading Auckland Housing Developers • Development Management • Project Management • Technical Management • Quantity Surveying • Architecture and Design • Construction 5 Antares Place, Rosedale, North Shore City, PO Box 305 393, Triton Plaza, Auckland, 0757 LOCATION: Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm +64 415 9110 scl@signature.co.nz signatureconstruction.co.nz Providing quality new home solutions for the community OFFICE HOURS: P R O U D L Y S U P P O R T I N G P J M P R O J E C T M A N A G E M E N T A W A R D - W I N N I N G A R C H I T E C T U R A L D E S I G N w w w . c r e a t i v e a r c h . c o . n z 29 Nixon St, Grey Lynn 09 309 6032
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