R.A. Lawson and F.W. Petre: their church architecture

Abstract

This report studies the church architecture of two early New Zealand architects, Robert Arthur Lawson and Francis William Petre. It presents an outline of their respective backgrounds, influences, construction methods, and examples of their work. It finished by considering the recognised major achievement of each architect: First Church for Lawson and The Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament for Petre. In conclusion, after considering their work, an attempt is made to assess the impact of these architects on New Zealand architecture.