James Solari helps launch Wellington Heritage Week
Our Director, James Solari, was delighted to join a recent panel discussion to tackle how best to manage Wellington’s rapid growth whilst preserving its heritage homes and other historically significant sites and spaces. James was joined on stage by Councillor Tamatha Paul, from Wellington City Council, Jane O’Laughlin from Live Wellington, Urban Designer Stuart Niven and Generation Zero’s Marko Garlick. The discussion was moderated by Kerryn Pollock, Senior Heritage Assessment Advisor for Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga.
The conversation opened with an exploration of how best to define ‘heritage’. James shared the importance of storytelling, from diverse perspectives, in order to accurately ascribe meaning to historical structures and spaces. He also reminded the audience that now is the time when the heritage of the future is being created. As such, James highlighted the responsibility of architects to design high-quality homes and buildings that will remain fit-for-purpose for years to come. According to James, the key is ensuring these structures are designed in a way that truly serves their residents and occupants.
The far-reaching panel discussion also touched on ways in which heritage contributes to a city’s identity. James cited Wellington’s Old Bank arcade as an exemplar of repurposing existing buildings in a respectful manner that honours their past and fortifies their future. He went on to urge all developers to approach refurbishment in such a meaningful way — not only reviving pre-loved projects but ensuring they thrive for future generations too.
The spotlight was also turned on Wellington’s housing crisis. Soaring house prices, a growing population and an investor-dominated market were all subjects of some hearty debate. So too Wellington’s new Spatial Plan and forthcoming changes to the District Plan. The Plan’s reduction of character areas, together with the recent Government policy allowing up to three homes of three storeys on one site, sans resource consent (not withstanding sites of heritage significance) prompted a robust conversation.
In the face of such challenges, James shared his belief in the power of well-designed, medium-density housing. Across both public and private sectors, James emphasised how this type of housing can unite people and facilitate more cohesive communities. Sustainable, climate-responsive design was also discussed within the context of medium-density housing.
Over sixty events are planned for the month-long celebration of Wellington’s heritage. Our thanks to Engineering New Zealand who hosted this launch event. To view the full panel discussion click here: https://vimeo.com/637745596/96662a85f7
To learn more about our approach to heritage projects and/or medium-density housing email [email protected]