Ngata College

By Architects44

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This fast-track project provided challenges in terms of remoteness and a very limited budget to rebuild and reinvigorate the school. The new buildings incorporate open-plan teaching and co-working spaces.

This was a hugely collaborative project, with architects and builders working closely together to overcome constraints. Architects 44 fast-tracked delivery by issuing packages of drawings for individual elements (e.g. foundations), to allow contractors to progress while other documents were completed.

The building references the outline of Mt Hikurangi with the sloping ridges leading to the twin peaks. The central corridor reflects the language of the marae with a central tuhuhu (ridge beam), and was designed to evoke a waka, representing the learning journey that the students take during their time at the school. Exposed rafters and coloured clerestory glazing contribute to the generous sense of space. Flexible planning allows a variety of uses, creating a focal point for the community.

Ngata College
Ngata College
Ngata College
Ngata College
Ngata College
Ngata College

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Ngata College

Architects44
Architects44
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We create spaces for people to be. We design buildings with courage, conviction and creativity. Architects 44 is an exuberant and dynamic architectural practice, with deep roots in Te Tairāwhiti. Our heritage goes back to the 1950s and we’re proud to have named our business for the physical space that our offices occupy, in a nod to our local heritage, to our place.

Our practice is the largest and most diverse architecture practice in Tairāwhiti. We build on our strong foundation to continuously develop and challenge ourselves.

Our team is experienced in delivering every type of project - from marae to monuments, from commercial buildings to churches, from rest homes to residential dwellings. We are well-equipped to deliver – from the largest commercial projects to the most intimate of residential renovations.

We offer a comprehensive service, delivering an end-result that addresses all the functional and technical requirements of the project, as well as addressing the real needs of the building – cultural and human.