Supported by
Roxburgh
The writing on New Zealand women architects’ practice from the 20th century has, until recently, been woefully scant. This Itinerary is the first in a series, each dedicated to a singular female architect’s practice work. Monica Barham is arguably the first registered female architect to practise as a partner in a successful architectural business in New Zealand, doing so with architect husband Cecil Barham from 1946.
Between 1945 and 1975, Invercargill’s post-war population doubled. Cecil Barham had turned down an opportunity of partnership in Monica’s father’s practice, Allan C Ford Architect, as he wanted, with Monica, to practise as equals sharing all aspects of the business. Together, they established Barham and Barham Architects and, at the same time, raised their six children. The Barhams’ practice thrived, fuelled by demand for public and community buildings, infrastructure and housing.
From a job list reaching almost 500, the Barhams each led their own separate projects and they also worked together on projects. Monica Barham was involved in all aspects of architecture in the practice: attracting new clients, structural design, working drawings and site administration. Journal listings for projects show Monica’s initials first. Hand-drawn and watercolour presentations reveal a subtle variance in their work. Monica was responsible for bringing licensing trust work into the office, along with a series of projects near to their Otatara home studio.
