Harry Turbott: New Zealand’s First Landscape Architect
Author:
Garth Falconer
Publisher:
Blue Acre Press, Oratia Publishing
ISBN:
9780473517496
Date Published:
November 2020
Pages:
220
Format:
Hardback
RRP:
$75.00
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Environmental design and landscape architecture are growing fields in New Zealand as people become more aware of the possibilities and benefits of sustainable development.
Harry Turbott (1930- 2016) played a crucial role in introducing these concepts to New Zealand.
His work is celebrated for the first time in Harry Turbott: New Zealand’s First Landscape Architect, which recognises Turbott’s pioneering achievements in a beautifully illustrated book showcasing and immortalising Turbott’s life, works and legacy.
Garth Falconer met Harry Turbott early in his career and reconnected with him in 2015 to write the book, ensuring his legacy lives on. Over four years Falconer collected archival research, notes, and stories about Harry, as well as photos of key projects by Simon Devitt.
As a landscape architect, teacher and environmentalist, Harry was at the forefront of the first wave of environmental design. His work across many areas of landscape architecture was prolific.
The estranged son of well-known radio broadcaster, Harry had an interesting life. Upon graduating from the University of Auckland’s School of Architecture, he won a scholarship to study at Harvard University, where he completed a Master’s in Landscape Architecture. He then spent 18 months working closely with Dan Kiley, America’s foremost landscape architect, before touring Europe and India with his wife Nan, who was a celebrated artist (1928-1977).
Harry recognised the importance of indigenous architecture. He embraced Māori and Pasifika cultures during many collaborative projects, including the restoration of Rarotonga’s Para O Tane Palace in Rarotonga and the Arataki Visitors Centre in the Waitākere Ranges.
The biography offers an intimate portrait of Harry’s life, his global influences and outlines several of his legacy projects. The final section is a short chapter written by Sir Bob Harvey on the life of Harry’s wife and her work. Harry and Sir Bob were close friends due to their years spent as close neighbours.
See Publisher’s Website
This book can be ordered direct from Reset Urban Design, or from booksellers like Paradox Books, Scorpio Books and Unity Books Online.
Reviews, Interviews, Articles, Extracts
Kete Review by John Walsh
Landscape Architecture Aotearoa, review by Matthew Bradbury
Radio New Zealand interview with Garth Falconer
