Church of Scientology International, Auckland
Project info
The former Methodist Theological College dates from 1926 and was built as accommodation for candidates for the Methodist ministry. It was designed by James Hodge White of the Dunedin architectural firm Miller, White and Dunn in the Collegiate Gothic style.
Later, the building was occupied by an arts school, before being bought by the Church of Scientology International. DPA Architects acted as heritage architects for the project, which involved the restoration, refurbishment and seismic upgrading of the building, which was in generally poor condition. It was also adapted to suit the needs of its new owner.
Later, the building was occupied by an arts school, before being bought by the Church of Scientology International. DPA Architects acted as heritage architects for the project, which involved the restoration, refurbishment and seismic upgrading of the building, which was in generally poor condition. It was also adapted to suit the needs of its new owner.
Work to the exterior included repointing the red brick and Oamaru stone walls. New carved elements were constructed to replace those that were damaged or had extensively weathered. Existing Marseilles roof tiles were removed to enable the roof to be strengthened. The original tiles were then reinstated with new tiles to match. Intricate lead detailing to parapets was also undertaken, and steel joinery was refurbished. The interior of the building was completely refitted and spaces of high heritage value, including the library, dining room and main staircase, were restored.
All work was undertaken in a manner that respected the building’s original design and construction methods, and it will ensure that the building survives in good condition for the benefit of future generations. The project won a Gold Award in the Heritage/Restoration Category of the 2018 New Zealand Commercial Project Awards.
Photography: Mark Scowen
All work was undertaken in a manner that respected the building’s original design and construction methods, and it will ensure that the building survives in good condition for the benefit of future generations. The project won a Gold Award in the Heritage/Restoration Category of the 2018 New Zealand Commercial Project Awards.
Photography: Mark Scowen