In 2007, the University of Auckland presented an exhibition devoted to the work of architect Vernon Akitt Brown (1905–1965), drawing upon its Architecture Archive. Held at the Gus Fisher Gallery, the exhibition offered an opportunity to revisit Brown's contribution to the development of modern architecture in New Zealand and to consider his wider influence on the country's artistic and cultural life. The exhibition's title and dates are confirmed in the gallery's historical records.

Beyond his architectural practice, Brown was closely connected with Auckland's artistic and literary circles. His friendships and collaborations reveal an architect whose interests extended well beyond buildings into painting, drawing, design and the exchange of creative ideas. A historical account published by Lost Property records that the University developed the 2007 exhibition from Jonathan Gibb's thesis on Vernon Brown.

The exhibition brought together original architectural drawings, photographs and papers donated to the University by Brown's family following his death in 1965. These were presented alongside architectural models made by contemporary students, connecting Brown's original design thinking with a new generation of architects.

Of particular interest was the exhibition's exploration of Brown's relationship with the poet and artist A. R. D. Fairburn. An article by art historian Linda Tyler in the University of Auckland's November 2007 newsletter records that Brown encouraged Fairburn to pursue fabric printing in 1944. Examples of Fairburn's printed textiles were included in the exhibition, illustrating the exchange of ideas between architecture, art and design.

The exhibition also examined Brown's influence as a teacher. His encouragement of the young architects who established the Architectural Group in 1946 helped foster a generation determined to develop an architectural language appropriate to New Zealand's climate, landscape and way of life.

The research surrounding the exhibition also contributed to the rediscovery of Brown's Vickery House, previously believed demolished.