Piece of history

Arden Lodge

The new colour scheme fits well with the traditional architecture and colour palette that would have been available at the time of first construction.

Arden Lodge in Havelock North is protected by a category 1 historical listing, necessitating extra special care when redecoration is planned. Built in 1926, the historic homestead was designed by the architectural partnership of William Gummer and Reginald Ford, one of only four homesteads they designed in the Hawkes Bay. Sturdily constructed of reinforced concrete and brick with a cavity wall stucco exterior, the years of weathering meant the exterior paint finish was no longer providing the required protection.

Resene X-200 weathertight membrane was selected as the primary exterior surface finish to help protect the substrate from the ravages of nature. Tinted to Resene Double Pearl Lusta (warm cream), the colour fits well with the traditional architecture and colour palette that would have been available at the time of first construction. The creamy finish is complemented by Resene Lumbersider satin acrylic tinted to Resene Canterbury Clay (muted French beige) on shutters and matching Resene Enamacryl waterborne gloss enamel on window joinery and trim. The feature wrought iron balustrading was finished in Resene Super Gloss Black for a sleek gloss finish.

Originally an explorer who visited the depths of the Antarctic, Reginald Ford settled down to study architecture in 1906, later becoming president of the NZIA in 1921. His first practice was established with Robert Talboys and following a move to Auckland he partnered with William Gummer, a pairing that won the first gold medal awarded by the NZIA in 1928 for the Auckland Public Library (Remuera). William Gummer served as the president of the NZIA in 1933 and was well known for his regular wins in architectural competitions. Both partners complemented each other's skill sets with Gummer focusing on design and Ford focusing on business management. They jointly played important roles in the development of the NZIA and training for young architects throughout their professional lives. Both have left their unmistakable talent showcased in New Zealand architecture.