Memory making

15 May 2013

For many Christchurch residents, repairing their much-loved homes just isn’t possible. But thanks to Canterbury model maker Richard Gardiner, they can have a physical reminder of their homes. Since the earthquakes, he has been inundated with request to make scale models of homes. Richard creates an exact replica that is exquisitely detailed yet small enough to fit on a shelf. He finishes the houses – which have ranged from quite stately old villas through to modest brick bungalows - in Resene testpots. The one pictured here has weatherboards in Resene Saltpan, Resene Santas Grey trims and Resene Mobster for the roof. Says Richard: “The earthquakes have made us aware of the value we attach to our houses and the terrible sense of loss we feel at their destruction.” Visit www.scaledown.co.nz. 

Published: 15 May 2013