Royal endorsement
Visitors to the Christchurch Botanic Gardens will, for the first time, have a clear view of the nursery, reference library and herbarium following the opening of the new multipurpose visitors centre.
The 3400m2 building, designed by Patterson Architects, features extensive glazing opening the building to the surrounding view and also many of the interior spaces to the public gaze.
“The design of the centre is in the spirit of classic garden architecture, strategically sited to complement existing pathways within the garden.
“As a base for botanic science and research, the building is designed to communicate and educate the visitor in the beauty, variety and complexity of the plant world,” says architect Andrew Patterson.
Now open to the public, the centre was officially opened by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge during their visit to New Zealand.