​Sometimes a building comes along that completely transforms the architectural landscape. The Dorset Street Flats complex, a Category 1 historic place comprising eight one-bedroom apartments divided over two buildings in Christchurch’s central city, was one of them. An early design of renowned New Zealand architect Sir Miles Warren, the flats have been recognised as one of the most important examples of post- war modernist architecture in the country. 

The colours are largely those used in the repair, strengthening and revitalisation of the flats post the Canterbury earthquakes. Here, Resene Alabaster forms the backdrop on the concrete block and Resene Baltic Sea references some of the exterior and interior detailing. Resene Red Oxide and Resene Siam were used on exterior walls and doors, respectively, and Resene Corn playfully highlights structural steel bracing above the stair. Here, it has been used to represent the light cast by the project’s globe-shaped pendants at night. 

​DOCOMOMO is the international working party for the DOcumentation and COnservation of buildings, sites and neighbourhoods of the MOdern MOvement.  Initiated by the University of Eindhoven, the Netherlands, in 1988, it is the most significant non-governmental organisation of experts devoted to the history, preservation and reassessment of modern architecture. 

In 1999, DOCOMOMO New Zealand compiled a ’top 20′ list of buildings, sites and neighbourhoods for publication in Dennis Sharp and Catherine Cooke (eds), The Modern Movement in Architecture: Selections from the DOCOMOMO Registers (010 Publishers, Rotterdam, 2000). Dorset Street Flats is included amongst the twenty local buildings listed.

Filming this week at Dorset Street Flats for the new documentary film “Maurice & I”, due in theatres later this year.

​Judges said: "This is an extraordinary project to preserve and revitalise a significant piece of New Zealand's architectural history. Initially aimed at repairing earthquake damage, the project eventually shifted to upgrading the flats to modern living standards, while respecting their heritage status. The jury was impressed by the architect's determination to save the building from demolition (which was proposed by insurance companies), praising their 'amazing tenacity' and extremely sensitive major interventions'. The project also received commendation for enhancing thermal comfort, making the flats models for small-space living. Notably, the restoration had the support of its tenants and serves as a mid-century example of co-housing, further justifying its preservation."

Thank you to Te Kāhui Whaihanga NZ Institute of Architects for this wonderful recognition at tonight’s New Zealand Architecture Awards, and congratulations to Young Architects.