Art & Design - Award-winning Architect

Ian Athfield

Wellingtonians treasure the cosmopolitan city-village scale of Wellington, its mix of heritage and modern buildings, and the lifestyle. Of the people who have shaped Wellington over the last 40 years, the name Ian Athfield stands out.

Ian was awarded the New Zealand Institute of Architects' Gold Medal, their highest honour, in 2004. His practice has won more than 60 national and international awards, including 13 NZIA Supreme Awards.

Ian is widely admired for his thoughtful, innovative, often provocative but always accomplished work, which includes Civic Square and Wellington Library, Jade Stadium in Christchurch, Victoria University's Student Union Building, a number of waterfront refurbishments such as Shed 22 and Odlins, and public spaces such as Taranaki Wharf. Ian was also involved in the concept design of the rapid transport system in Bangkok.

The physical nature of Wellington, its steep hills and tight core have always informed Ian's work. At the same time, he is interested less in preserving views than in promoting neighbourliness. His public buildings are especially noted for, as he puts it - "being good neighbours."

Ian says architecture and urban design can play a major role in economic growth. He points to the role that Wellington has played in the reinvention of the Wairarapa. "It's no coincidence that Greytown and Martinborough have intimate cores and strong town/country edges. They are so much better than other small towns around the country."

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