John Seddon, a master plasterer with over 50 years of experience, is retiring and selling his business, leaving behind a legacy of exquisite craftsmanship in New Zealand's historic homes. His work, which includes the restoration of ceilings at Larnach Castle and Earnscleugh Castle, has been a testament to his skill and dedication. But what makes Seddon's story truly captivating is the insight he offers into the world of high-end plastering and the secrets behind some of New Zealand's most prestigious homes.
A Plasterer's Journey
Seddon's journey began in 1973 when he joined his family business, Seddon's Fibrous Plasterers. This decision set him on a path that would lead him to some of the most iconic buildings in New Zealand. His work has been diverse, ranging from restoring the ornate ceilings of Larnach Castle to creating intricate plasterwork for Riverstone Castle, the childhood dream of Dot Smith, aka the Queen of Ōamaru.
What makes Seddon's work particularly fascinating is his ability to bring the visions of his clients to life. He explains, "Dad always used to say, 'If you can draw it, we can make it'. You're only limited by the designer's imagination really." This philosophy has allowed him to create some of the most stunning plasterwork in the country.
The Art of Plastering
Seddon's business has been a hub for high-end plastering, offering a range of services from restoring historic ceilings to creating intricate, one-off moulds. He explains, "We get involved in a lot of curved work, these days, one-off moulds, curved stuff, anything that’s a wee bit out of the ordinary." This attention to detail and willingness to take on unique projects has set his business apart.
One of the most memorable aspects of Seddon's work is his ability to blend in seamlessly. He notes, "We won an Institute of Architects Award for one of the ceilings we had done there. You can’t even tell we’ve been there. And it was pretty rough when we started." This level of craftsmanship is a testament to his skill and dedication.
The Impact of Seddon's Work
Seddon's work has had a significant impact on New Zealand's architectural landscape. His restoration of ceilings at Larnach Castle, for example, has helped preserve the building's historical integrity. He explains, "Larnach Castle was built in the late 1800s, and it leaked a lot because of the way they were built in those days, and it was up on the hill, up above the Otago Peninsula, so it copped all the weather." His work has also been recognized with awards, including one for feature ceilings in the ANZ Centre in High Street, Christchurch.
The Future of Plastering
As Seddon retires, the future of plastering in New Zealand is uncertain. However, his legacy will continue through the businesses he has helped establish and the skills he has passed on. He notes, "We did a big house in the hills behind Arrowtown, maybe 12 months ago. A lot of the walls of the spiral staircase, and a lot of circular lightwells." This work, along with his other projects, will continue to inspire and influence future generations of plasterers.
In conclusion, John Seddon's retirement marks the end of an era in New Zealand's plastering industry. His work has been a testament to the art of plastering, and his legacy will continue to inspire and influence future generations. As he steps away, the industry will miss his skill, dedication, and unique perspective on the world of high-end plastering.
