The New Zealand Villa
Built by the Victorians and the Edwardian’s from great native forests, the villa is New Zealand’s most distinctive housing type.
The origins of the New Zealand villa are rooted in 18th and 19th century Britain. As a building type it flourished during the Georgian era, the period from 1715 to 1830.
The term ‘villa’ was associated with the wealthier upper classes and described a house on its own plot of land. During the time people were fascinated by the archaeology of Greece and Rome. The design of these houses was influenced by the classical architecture of those civilisations.
I am lucky enough to own my own villa with origins from 1920 Kawakawa, Northland. Lovingly restoring it inch by inch, I continue to be fascinated by the deep history and rich style of the classic New Zealand villa.
Below is a collection of photos of the different styles of villas in Devonport and Herne Bay, Auckland.
(Photography / Laura Thomas)
Hey.
I was just wondering what the exterior paint colour scheme was on the New Zealand Villa you restored.
Hi Olivier, I’ve looked and I can’t find exactly the paint colours but I used Resene Paints throughout the exterior and interior in both Kiwi houses I renovated. Thanks for your comment, Laura x