Boxed Quarter was the first large-scale iteration of the prefabricated Boxus system designed by Field, after the success of smaller temporary projects ArtBox and BeatBox. Boxus is a flexible spatial system made with three-dimensional earthquake-safe 100mm steel frames. It is largely dismantlable to avoid waste and allow for relocation and repurposing of all or part of the construction. 

It’s a unique design feat in more ways. The mixed-use development was envisioned to be the home of art, music, hospitality, design studios and even residential, and this goal has been achieved. The structure is porous; tenants and visitors easily flow through the space, interacting and exploring new sights around every corner. Removable art panels allow tenants to customise their space, and the density means the building feels like a village. 

Field Studio provided full service for this development, from master-planning to concept to detailed documentation and construction observation. Field also designed many of the internal spaces including the fit-out of our own floating studio space and beautiful apartments. 

Client: Boxed Quarter Ltd
Field Studio project team: Andrew Just, Amiria Kiddle, Nick Sargent, Barnaby Bennet, Seline Grüter, Phoebe Kent, Tom Davies

Local authority: Christchurch City Council
Project manager: Optimum Projects
Urban design review: Rebecca Kiddle
Surveyor: 43 Below
Geotechnical engineers: Engineering Design  Consultants
Structural engineers: Ruamoko Solutions
Fire engineers: T M Consultants
Mechanical services: HPAC
Energy consultant: Demand Response
Weathertightness review: Maynard Marks
Electrical engineer: Eleccom Design
Main contractor: Malcolm Williams Builders
Plumbing: Richard Rea
Photography: Dennis Radermacher 

Street art in images: Lauren Constable (shotbylauren), Wongi Wilson, Rodrigo Rozas, Kophie Su’a-Hulsbosch.