Civic Trust’s second Winter Lecture was held in brilliant winter sunshine at the modernist Donner House in Titirangi, on Sunday 30 July.

Owner Paul Jenkins, an architect, has spent the best part of the last 20 years restoring and maintaining the 1940’s house that noted City Architect Tibor Donner built for himself.

This elegant house, with its curved lines throughout, is considered one of the most important modernist houses in New Zealand, and is featured in many publications.

Paul graciously presented on the history of the house, and his restoration, and showed us a short video featuring the house. We then toured the two storeys, marveling at the curves everywhere, and the beautiful built-in furniture and storage. 

The brave could ascend the thin spiral staircase to the roof terrace and panoramic views across the city.

Our usual refreshments were provided by Margaret Barriball.

Our thanks to Paul and his partner Jane, for making this a most memorable afternoon. 

Owner Paul Jenkins

Examining remains of the original roof terrace surface

Paul’s partner, Jane, in the open plan living room

The living room extends across the entire ground floor