2017’s top 5 civic spaces
From a small surf lifesaving club to a multi-layered station, these are ArchitectureNow's top 5 most viewed civic projects of 2017.
1. St Andrew’s College Centennial Chapel, Christchurch by Architectus
A clever weaving of heritage forms, salvaged materials and modern additions give this chapel a memorable elegance. This is a flexible space that performs several roles, with a distinctive combination of Scottish and New Zealand heritages. With a completely glazed southern wall, this chapel celebrates a close relationship with the surrounding garden landscape. More…
2. Ōtāhuhu Train Station, Auckland by Jasmax
Situated on the narrowest part of the country, this multi-layered transport interchange delivers a sense of our place in the South Pacific via integrated artworks that reference navigation, movement and orientation. Sustainable initiatives include the treatment of stormwater via rain gardens and a planted wetland, and significant native planting. More…
3. Te Wharehou o Waikaremoana, Te Uruwera by Tennent Brown Architects
The striking new visitor centre Te Wharehou is located in a remote valley within Te Urewera, overlooking Lake Waikaremoana. This is Ngāi Tūhoe’s homeland and work on the building only started after many hours of consultation with local iwi. Materials were driven by the Living Building Challenge and include local tōtara, burnt timber and corrugate. More…
4. Wellington International Airport Terminal: South Extension by Warren and Mahoney
The glazed diamond cross-hatched façade of the Wellington airport’s south extension alludes to the image of a hīnaki (eel net) while allowing plenty of light to enter the building. Inside, boldly woven laminated pine columns lean towards each other but don’t quite touch, while the horizontal lines of the ceiling seem to direct passengers towards their flight. More…
5. Sumner Surf Lifesaving Club, Christchurch by Wilson and Hill Architects
This modest but confident structure replaces a 1950s club that was destroyed by the 2011 Christchurch earthquakes. Three curved roofs bring to mind the rolling surf just opposite and the robust exterior is composed of untreated cedar, concrete and marine-grade stainless steel to keep maintenance requirements low. A great addition for this coastal suburb. More…