Armson – St Mary’s

In a recent interview in The Listener, professional musician Genevieve Lacey revealed her devotion to the recorder as her preferred instrument of choice.

Her first opportunity came about with her family in the Highlands of Papua New Guinea where instruments were rare, but a recorder was found.

Lacey then confirmed how over time she allowed the recorder to influence her playing of a wide range of music.

On that note, the same comment might be applied to the output of a particular architect, perhaps modifying the client’s brief to suit his or her particular style, and choice of materials.

However, many architects have contributed to the architectural heritage of Timaru, so any repetition from one particular studio is of little concern.

St Mary’s of Timaru, was designed by W B Armson of Christchurch in 1880.

The bishop of the greater Canterbury domain had been stationed on the West Coast, at a time when Armson had recently created a church for that region.

His skill was admired by the bishop, so that when the time came to find an architect for Timaru, the bishop promoted Armson for the task.

Armson seized the opportunity, modelling a building with its commanding tower, and a cloud-piercing spire — very attractive on paper but just too pretentious.

The spire was reduced, well before construction.

His foray in to ecclesiastical buildings was rare, but Armson provided a special piece of sculpture and a beautiful interior, on a prominent site in Timaru.

The photo shows recent strengthening work under way.

​David McBride