William Beatson

William Beatson (1807 – 13 January 1870) was a London-trained architect who immigrated to New Zealand. He adapted contemporary English building design to meet the rigors of the New Zealand environment.

Early life

William Beatson was born 8 September 1807 in Kent, England, the son of David Beatson, a Rotherhithe shipbreaker. Beatson's family was upper-class with his grandfather being laird of Kilrie, Fife County. Beatson attended either Eton College or King's College London. Beatson apprenticed with Wallen's firm in the late 1820s and by 1836 was a partner in the firm. Beatson's time in the firm likely influenced his architectural philosophy. Beatson was admitted to the Royal Academy in 1832 following a recommendation from Wallen. His time at the academy would have given him a deeper appreciation of the Classical and Gothic architecture. He also designed several commercial buildings; his first project being a warehouse and offices for Morrison and Sclanders in Hardy Street (1863). Beatson's commercial buildings reflected a familiarity with the Italianate style that he acquired while working with Wallen.