Terrible News Re. Gordon Wilson Flats and Archway Theatres
A legislative amendment passed by the National-led coalition government to make way for the demolition of a single heritage building – Wellington’s Gordon Wilson Flats (1954-59) – is a national disgrace. Similarly, Victoria University of Wellington’s determination to demolish a large concrete building, but particularly a block of flats during a housing crisis, is very problematic. The heritage value of the Gordon Wilson Flats has been considered and confirmed by experts in the Environment Court, but a bunch of people who know little about heritage value think it is fine to ignore their conclusions. We live in worrying times.
Chris Bishop’s announcement about this amendment to the Resource Management Act has triggered much commentary on just how problematic it is. See:
- Architect Ken Davis on the ZB network here;
- Academic and urban issues commentator Bill McKay on RNZ National here; and
- Heritage architect and PhD candidate Joanna Theodore on Architecture Now here.
All emphasise the significant social history of the Gordon Wilson Flats, the huge environmental (carbon) impact of demolition, and the potential that this particular building has to be adapted for reuse. For the sake of the environment and climate change, we as a country need to be more active in embracing adaptive reuse rather than continually thinking it is ok to throw away disused old buildings.
It’s happening in Dunedin, too, where the University of Otago is wanting to demolish the Ted McCoy-designed Archway Lecture Theatres, a sculptural piece of Brutalist design with rich concrete textures. If kept, this building would surely be loved by future generations in the way that so many people love Napier’s Art Deco architecture today. See:
- Academic Christine McCarthy on RNZ National here.
What a waste.
Gordon Wilson Flats, Wellington (1954-59)