Design and Character

It isn't just about how big the fence is, it is how it looks. And maybe not just a fence that grabs my attention but anything that might catch my eye.

One of my favorites is the carved Tiki above the entrance to the garage that sits on the footpath. It welcomes visitors to Wharetane house which can be found at 26 Clive Road, Mount Eden. A description is held on the Auckland City website:

"Trevor Lloyd's house, "Wharetane" was constructed in 1928 and was designed by Scottish-trained architect, John Anderson. Trevor Lloyd (1863-1937), possibly best known for his studies of native flora and fauna, was a political cartoonist on the New Zealand Herald from 1910-1930.

When the All Blacks were defeated by Wales in 1905, he drew what is believed to be the first New Zealand cartoon using the kiwi as a symbol for New Zealand. Lloyd was also well known for using Maori motifs and design and this is evident on the stone garage, and detailing throughout this house."

 Generally a garage located right on the footpath can offend me, but where it is small and offers something back to the streetscape a completely different experience is given. Check out this house and other places of interest in Mount Eden and let me know what you think about the fences. Take this Mount Eden walk to get to know the heritage of the area: http://www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/whatson/places/walkways/mteden/industrial.asp

Quote taken from the above website from the above link.

What is Auckland Fences.org?

"Good fences make good neighbours" as the saying goes. Generally this implies that the taller the fence is the less the neighbours see of each other which will avoid the fear of conflict either real or imagined.

Fences do have there place, particularly to give  privacy in the back yard. But more and more we are seeing the front yards being fortified by the standard 1.8 metre high close boarded fence. In doing so we are seeing the home turn its back on the street and its back on public life, neighbours, casual interaction, eyes on the street for safety and a general neighbourhood amenity and character.

Auckland Fences is about encouraging great and creative front yard fences by promoting positive examples and taking a look at our less appealing structures.

Auckland Fences will show that a truly good fence can make good neighbours.

This is a work in progress and a learning curve for me. If you have found your way to my blog, thank you, and hope that you fill follow me on my journey.

Picture: Mount Eden Villa; 2009; Author.