MACFIE ARCHITECTURE | In Conversation with Architectural Photographer Tori Hayley

Some collaborations just work — and our five-year partnership with photographer Tori Hayley is one of them. Over that time, Tori has captured more than a dozen of Macfie Architecture's completed projects, bringing her distinctive eye for light, warmth and personality to every space she shoots.

Now based in London, we caught up with Tori to talk aesthetic, architecture and the spaces she dreams of shooting.

Where did you study?

I studied Fashion — menswear — at AUT, and photography at the New York Film Academy. One of my favourite cities, so it was a pretty wonderful place to learn.

What is your favourite city for architecture?

London or Paris, without question. I love the uniformity of Paris, and the darker, more layered aesthetic of East London. Both cities have such a rich history that has been so carefully maintained.

Can you imagine all the people who have lived in these buildings?

To me, architecture is about the feeling you get from a space. I especially love city architecture where you catch a glimpse into people's lives through an open window — a meal laid ready on the table, children doing homework, a dinner party among friends, teenagers sneaking out a window. All of it on display.

What do you enjoy about shooting architecture?

I appreciate that architecture is a reflection of personality — especially in a home, where it becomes someone's sanctuary. A space to truly be themselves.

The way a floorplan is designed to maximise space and save energy also fascinates me. A small, well-designed space can be far more practical, efficient and beautiful than a large, poorly laid out one.

Favourite project you've shot for Macfie Architecture?

I love the way Macfie Architecture blends beautiful New Zealand heritage buildings with bright, fresh open-plan layouts. One of my favourites would have to be one of the very first villas I photographed for them in Grey Lynn — a traditional villa from the street, with a large glass extension to the rear that opened up the main living area and poured warm light throughout the home. It had such an inviting feel. A real warmth.

Dream space to shoot?

Somewhere with soft, warm light. Perhaps an artist's studio in Paris on a summer afternoon — parquet flooring, sheer curtains lifting in the breeze from an open terrace.