Cityscape catches up with CoLab Architecture’s Tobin Smith and Blair Paterson to discuss the relationship between fashion and architecture.

Urban Cottage Image: Stephen Goodenough

International movements in architecture and fashion have often been influenced by one another, and both in turn are heavily influenced by climate, culture and individual identity. Both can also illustrate a balance between necessity and luxury.

Sometimes the confluence between architecture and fashion is crystal-clear. Art Deco, for example, demonstrates a period when architecture, clothing, jewellery and furniture were very much aligned. The downside though is that with such a strong and easily identifiable aesthetic, the timelessness of the architecture can be subject to a lifespan similar to the fashion.

As we’ve found our design feet in New Zealand, we have evolved a style of architecture that is unique to our local context and climate, moving on from outside influences. Materiality, sustainability and contextual sensibility take precedence over simply mimicking worldwide trends. This considered architectural language is translating through our interior spaces to the textiles and furnishings being used. Furniture designers are aligning with this ethos by creating pieces that express a quality of thought and production and celebrate relevant tones and materials.

The architecture within CoLab tends to be intentionally simple. We are drawn to forms that are strong and rational, free of unnecessary detail or stylistic complexity. Our colour palettes tend to follow these same basic principles – black, white and natural material tones.

These principles translate to the fixtures and furnishings we are drawn to. For us, good design pieces should sit in harmony with one another, irrespective of age or style. Quality pieces, like good architecture, should never date. Fortunately we have a wealth of local designers and suppliers that can aid these selections.

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