With a lower floor space of 540sqm and a large concrete mezzanine floor, the area more than doubled the existing library which was demolished as part of the second portion of this two staged contract.

The open plan design has created a positive community environment. The library seamlessly flows through both floors of the building. Reflecting Picton’s maritime history, the design features cedar cladding some of which is over inclined and curved exterior walls. The prominent Maori history of Picton was recognised in the dawn pre-construction Mauri Stone burial ceremony.

It has all the characteristics of a high-end residential build requiring a top level of craftsmanship. The design is leading edge architecture with a high level of intricacy. Construction required a minute degree of building tolerance. Many of the structural connections weren’t designed to be plumb or square and were left exposed with the interfaces between trades requiring near perfection.

The programme didn’t allow time for all offsite components to be site measured. The shop drawing process enabled offsite prefabrication of most structural items and joinery to allow continuity of work onsite.

Project Awards

• New Zealand Commercial Projects Awards - Gold Award 2019