Tony Watkins

I found Tony Watkins’ course on Green Architecture one of the most refreshing, eccentric and engaging workshops within the context of an academic establishment I’ve ever encountered.

His style and nature turn learning on its head and allow huge variety and space to explore and develop personal interests and pet projects. I thoroughly recommend it, although it should carry the warning –  “recommended for the open–minded and free-spirited only”. 

Nik Janiurek   (Green Architecture - March 2006)

A unique and relaxing weekend that has left me thinking about the topics discussed for the last 6 months.  I would recommend it to anyone.
 
Byron Powell   (Green Architecture - March 2006)

Tony has a very relaxed style in an open air classroom. Enjoyed the
experience of visiting a house built on a "green architecture" concept.
I was coming from a very conventional building background and found
Tony's ideas thought provoking and refreshing.

Name withheld after five years, at student's re3quest  (Green Architecture - March 2006)

The course was an awesome experience, a journey led by Tony, from the very heart of his passion...Karaka Bay.  His house, the bay and the stories that came with it, acted as a model for the principles and ideals he discussed relating to Green Architecture.  I loved every minute of the 2 days, from the interaction with a like-minded group of people all interested in improving the sustainability of their ways of life, to Tony's charisma and spontaneous delivery of a plethora of knowledge.  His words of wisdom come in anecdotal form, an organic evolution of thoughts that draws on his many experiences from life, building, architecture and people.   I remember him saying, everyday, one must perform rituals that highlight the beauty of life.  His class is a ritual event, a search for harmony between the built and the natural, developing an understanding of 'place' and its meaning.  As you sit there outdoors in open air, under his ballooning parachute-like shade pavilion created especially for the purpose of the course, you are put directly in touch with your surrounds and your senses, Tony notes how as we move or adjust our seating arrangement as the sun shifts throughout the day, we are responding to the conditions put before us.  
He brings an exuberent energy to each individual's projects, or questions, where people seem lost he gives them clarity, and ideas, ideas galore.  He is so notably passionate about green architecture, that he inspires, enlightens and empowers you whatever your cause may be.  It was awesome being able to wander through his house and see the different ways in which it embraces its surroundings, to bear witness to the architecture that is 'his' story.
 
I would highly recommend the Green Architecture course to anyone with an interest in green principles...I would in fact recommend the course to everyone, I think he has something to offer to all.  A great role model, motivator and teacher!
 
Haley Hooper    (Green Architecture - March 2006)

Photo by Larry

Photo by Larry

Photo by Larry

Photo by Larry

Photo by Larry

Photo by Larry

Photo by Larry

Photo by Larry