Born Hamilton, Waikato, New Zealand 1878- Died November 16, 1957 (79) Auckland, New Zealand
The Hay brothers hired architect Thomas Coulthard Mullions, known for using reinforced concrete to create larger, more durable buildings with bold features like expansive windows and decorative facades. Mullions also designed his own home at 8 Park Lane, and oversaw the construction of ‘The Croft’ (former Orbell house, 1908).
Mullions moved to Auckland, helping to design notible buildings Aotea Buildings (1910), The Stanley Street Police Station (1920s) and Mercantile Chambers (1927).
Notable examples of Mullions' work in Timaru:
Hay's Building (CML Building) – Located at 229-243 Stafford Street, this three-storey commercial building features a curved façade with Edwardian Baroque and classical influences. It was commissioned by William Hay in 1907 and constructed in 1908.
Stafford Chambers – Located on the corner of Stafford and Strathallan Streets, this building is another example of Mullions' work, contributing to the development of Timaru’s commercial architecture.
Mullions arrived in Timaru in 1904 and rapidly developed a strong practice. He was well supported by prominent families in the district, for both residential work and commercial buildings. Many buildings remain.
Mullions moved away, finally to Auckland, where he entered in to partnership with Sholto Smith. Smith was born in France then lived in Canada before migrating to New Zealand as a young architect in 1920. The two architects flourished in partnership. They produced many notable buildings particularly houses in the Arts and Crafts style and many larger buildings including the Shortland Street flats – now well protected. Their houses in Epsom, Parnell and Remuera are also gaining in status now that Aucklanders are keen to retain heritage fabric. Of note is a picturesque house in Parnell, La Morna which is very similar in style to a house in Chalmers Street Timaru designed by Mullions some years earlier. This is the Arts and Crafts style two-storeyed house located alongside the carpark of the Highfield Village Mall.
1906-1908. Commercial Building. 251 Stafford Street
T Coulthard Mullions
1907-1908. Former Hay's Buildings. 229-237 Stafford Street, Timaru
Architect: Thomas Coulthard Mullions;
Builders: Messrs Hunt & Werry
Edwardian commercial classicism
Significant elements include palasters, capitals, open bed pediments, varied arch window details, oriel windows and catouche detail.
Was erected for R Hay of Christchurch
1908 Stafford Chambers. 199-209 Stafford Street / 18-22 Beswick Street, Timaru
Thomas Coulthard Mullions; Builder: HN Hollow
Commercial classicism
1911 The Lyceum Auditorium / The Magestic Theatre
Thomas Coulthard Mullions
Could be NZ oldest purpose built picture theatre. Seats 1200. Opened March15, 1911operated by Haywards Picture Co. The front was demolished and rebuilt, the rear was retained.
1911-12 former St John’s Presbyterian Church
10 Manse Road, Pleasant Point, Gothic Revival