Iconic New Zealand architect Ian Athfield, or Ath as he had become to known amongst friends, died unexpectedly on 16 January of this year – tragically only a few weeks after receiving a knighthood in the New Years Honours.

Born in Christchurch in 1940, Ath joined Structon Group Architects in 1963 and become a partner in 1965 before setting up and being a principal partner of Athfield Architects in 1968.

As a President of the New Zealand Institute of Architects, Ian Athfield judged many design competitions and appeared as a keynote speaker at numerous overseas conferences. Athfield Architects’ later projects included Chews Lane Precinct, the Wellington Overseas Passenger Terminal redevelopment and the Wellington Marine Education Centre.

There will be a tribute and a celebration to Ath as a part of the 2015 Sydney Architecture Festival in the Museum of Sydney’s Warrane Theatre where two wonderful documentaries about the man will be shown…

Athfield Architect: Made during the 1970’s by the now famous Sam Neill, this documentary was produced at the time that Ath and colleagues won an international competition for social housing in the Phillipines.

Architect of Dreams: Made in 2008 by Geoffrey Cawthorn, this film tracks Ath’s incredible life and work with his wife Clare.

For those who do not know of Ath and his work, this is an opportunity to undo a great oversight. For those that have had the privilege of knowing him, it will be a chance to be reminded and to rejoice.

Seats limited, only $20 nominal fee.

Further Info at – https://www.ozetecture.org/2015/ath-ian-athfield-tribute-afternoon/

Book at – https://www.sydneyarchitecturefestival.org/events/october-4-newcity/eventdetail/14/-/legendary-new-zealand-architect-sir-ian-athfield-a-tribute