Designed for the blind

Andrew Paul Wood

In 1964, Timaru made national history when the Royal New Zealand Foundation for the Blind opened a social centre at 63 Grey Rd.

It was the first of its kind in the country, marking a vast improvement in quality of life for the visually impaired in South Canterbury.

The new venue provided a range of activities, including indoor bowls and occupational therapy.

It is a relatively straightforward example of mid-century modern design. Its low profile, simple interlocking gabled roof forms, and unadorned concrete block walls reflect the period’s emphasis on practicality and clean geometry.

Large windows provide ample natural light, and the layout is arranged for clarity and ease of movement. A gently graded entrance ramp signals the building’s purpose and ensures full accessibility.

Overall, the design is functional, economical, and built to serve the community without unnecessary embellishment.

The aesthetic is structural in the roofline, window layout and clever use of the concrete blocks appealing to the sense of touch.

“The building,” reported The Timaru Herald (November 2, 1964), “of concrete block construction covering an area of 1250 square feet [116m²], was financed from legacy funds left by beneficiaries for the blind of Timaru.

It is an orthodox type of hall, simple in design and with the usual amenities associated with social functions; but, for the benefit of the blind, steps have been avoided.”

It was opened by the then Minister of Education, Arthur Kinsella (1910-2004), who described the building as “most attractive’’.

The total cost was around £8000, which is approximately $320,000 in today’s money.

The building was designed by Timaru architect Owen Wiles MacDonald (1916-2012), who also designed the South Canterbury Savage Club Hall in Dee St.

You can see many resemblances in the use of concrete block, treatment of the windows and the creation of interesting patterns, rhythms and textures.

MacDonald also took over as architect to the Timaru Hospital Board, succeeding Percy Rule when the latter died part way through the construction of the Jean Todd ward.