A Magnificent Broadcasting Palace: Radio 1YA’s Art Deco History

When the Radio 1YA Broadcasting Studios were opened as the Southern Hemisphere’s first purpose-built radio studios in 1935, Art Deco architecture and design was in full swing. Plenty of beautiful heritage features from this era have been preserved as reminders of a forgotten era. From native timber inlaid wooden doors, intricate geometric plaster mouldings and an ornate stained-glass dome, the interior of Gus Fisher Gallery abounds with Art Deco features making it the characterful space it is today.

To celebrate our Art Deco past, Gus Fisher Gallery presents a new display focusing on why this popular style was chosen for a building constructed to house pioneering radio technology, and how it continues to endure as an integral part of our building today. Through key heritage features, historic floor plans and photographs dating back to the early days of 1YA, this display explores the building’s stunning Art Deco features and unique history as one of Tāmaki Makaurau’s most distinctive heritage buildings.

Design by Gabi Lardies.