Local architect and television presenter, Tom Webster has spent years exploring some of New Zealand's most inspiring homes. As the host of 'Grand Designs New Zealand' and 'Coastal Wonders', he's seen first-hand how great design can shape the way we live, connect and experience a place. Originally from the UK, Tom has been a North Shore local for the last 10 years, where he runs Webster Harding Architects with his wife Anna. Tom chats with Channel Mag's Liz Cannon about architecture, community, what makes a home truly memorable, and why he's stepping up to help with Devonport Rotary's major fundraiser, 'Homes of Devonport'.
Channel Mag: What makes Devonport's architecture so special?
Tom Webster: Devonport feels to me like a living architectural museum. Take a well-planned trip around its streets, and you will encounter the whole encyclopedia of New Zealand housing stock. Early cottages, villas, transitional villas, bungalows, Art Deco, state housing, mid-century, work by Group Architects, brick and tile and, perhaps a surprise to some, examples of very fine contemporary architecture. I guess due to its peninsula location, away from the city, it has resisted some of the less desirable modernisation trends, but at the same time Devonport has some pretty savvy design-aware residents keen to engage with the latest architectural dreaming.
How does good architecture help create a stronger sense of community?
Architecture spans all scales from little bathroom extensions to major civic buildings and city-scale urban centres. At the larger end of the scale, it's easy to link well-resolved architecture with a positive impact on the public realm and therefore the health of our communities. We also notice when the opposite is true; poorly considered civic architecture doesn't accommodate or encourage community activity and engagement. Historically, town planning – the architecture of our communities – paid attention to the need to create village greens, community centres, sports fields and parks as well as streets containing houses arranged for both privacy and community interaction. Devonport has all of this in spades.
You've visited homes of every style imaginable. What qualities make a home truly memorable?
Many things impress me when visiting houses. I particularly enjoy encountering novel ideas and clever design solutions, and I really enjoy those genuine surprise moments, whether they come from scale, outlook or an unusual relationship between different rooms both inside and out. What seems to stick with me the most, though, is when I come across a home that truly reflects the personality of its owners (especially if they are good sorts!). A bit like the old cliché that owners and their dogs look alike, so, I'd argue, do the best houses. More than looks, though, a house where the owners haven't held back is an insight into the soul. I often feel the most important part of my job as an architect is to be a key to unlock that inner design passion.
After exploring so many remarkable properties, what makes a house feel like home?
Pets (non-destructive types), the smell of baking, a great layout that works for family dinners as well as significant birthday parties. Somewhere to grow and appreciate plants, snug bedrooms, light-filled living areas, easy movement, great shoe storage, somewhere for friends and family to stay over (but not to outstay). Art (some homegrown), places for all the special stuff, and a large shed for everything else.
Why do you think people are so fascinated by stepping inside other people's homes?
Deep down, we are all nosy; we like a glimpse into other people's domestic worlds, not so much to compare it with our own, but just to know. Luckily, in New Zealand we have the open homes phenomenon, allegedly about selling houses but really a chance for the whole neighbourhood to see what colour the carpets are at number 33. These events don't really happen in England, and while the English are just as nosy, they don't have a socially acceptable outlet for that need. Having said that, I've lived on the peninsula for almost exactly 10 years and have only been to a handful of open homes.... Got to start being more Kiwi!
Why are you supporting Devonport Rotary's 'Homes of Devonport' this year?
Every year Anna and I at Webster Harding Architects look to give some of our time and/or skills to charity. Rotary, as a local community-based and focused organisation, is a truly excellent charity to support (and secretly I really do want to see the colour of the carpet at 33!)
Tickets are now on sale for 'Homes of Devonport', presented by Devonport Rotary in partnership with Bayleys Devonport. The popular fundraising event offers a rare opportunity to step inside a curated collection of Devonport’s most distinctive homes, from character villas to contemporary architectural showcases. Proceeds will support Dementia Auckland, Cure Kids, Motor Neurone Disease NZ and the Devonport Rotary Charitable Trust.
The self-guided tour is on Friday 13 November from 9.30am to 3.30pm, with tickets priced at $85. Tom Webster will host a post-event VIP drinks and nibbles afternoon from 4pm to 6pm. Tickets for both events are available for $150. Purchase tickets via Eventfinda at eventfinda.co.nz
