RETRO VIBE

This architectural gem was part of the modernist movement in New Zealand, writes Catherine Masters

A forgotten slice of New Zealand architectural history is for sale in Te Atatu, Auckland.

The mid-century modern classic was designed by the late Peter Bartlett, an award-winning architect and professor at Auckland’s School of Architecture.

The four-bedroom, light-filled house, at 231 Te Atatu Rd, is known as the ‘Meekings house’, after the family who commissioned it, and is to be auctioned on November 9.

Owned by Brant and Kylie Fraser, it sits on a 1000sq m section and has views across the harbour to the city.

Brant and Kylie, who work in the film industry, are big fans of the modernist era and knew when they walked in 10 years ago this was the house for them.

“We’re really into mid-century architecture,” says Brant. “For me, it’s just that in New Zealand, especially in Auckland, it’s all villas, the old colonial style of housing, or state housing.”

Mid-century modernist homes, built from the 1940s to the 1960s, were built with big windows to let in the light.

Brant, who has an art history degree, says the architecture emerged out of mainly European immigrants to New Zealand bringing ideas with them.

“Really interesting lines and all this really interesting light that you just don’t get in villas. It’s spatially a very uplifting place. I just love walking in here.”

The home features split-level living with the upstairs dining area stepping down into the conversation pit lounge and its built-in furniture. This home has brick, cinder block and wood and was positioned for the view and sun. “The sun travels around it and the big brick walls keep it warm and sheltered,” says Brant.

“This was termed Scandinavian modernist, which I guess is a lot of timber and being open.”

Quirky features includes the cutlery drawer, which opens both to the kitchen and dining area.

Downstairs has a rumpus room and another bedroom, an extensive backyard with fruit trees, and a built-in garden shed.

Says agent Richard Burt from Sothebys: “The home featured in Home & Building

magazine in 1961, and the architect won a design competition for another Auckland house in 1958.”