Brown, D.
Culture Planning & Design
Penguin., ,
2009
Brown's book offers an exploration into the evolution of Māori architecture, from its traditional forms to contemporary adaptations.
She discusses the historical development of various architectural styles within Māori culture. The book is organised into seven chapters, each illustrating how Māori architecture has been a dynamic response to various challenges – natural, spiritual, political, and colonial. Brown emphasises the resilient nature of Māori culture in continually adapting and rebuilding their architectural practices. The book explores key concepts in Māori architecture, such as the marae (a central communal space) and the whare (the basic house design forming the blueprint for all Māori architecture). Brown also examines the impact of European colonisation, including the adoption of Christian church designs by Māori, the widespread creation of wharenui meeting houses for tribal gatherings, the development of new towns, the revival of traditional arts, and the rise of urban marae. The book serves as an essential resource for understanding the fusion of traditional designs with modern architectural techniques in New Zealand’s indigenous structures. It also highlights the role of architecture in maintaining and expressing Māori identity and cultural heritage. The book also has many large-format illustrations.
