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The restoration and adaptive reuse of the former St James Presbyterian Church in Newtown is the first stage of a comprehensive mixed use urban development. It will eventually include a pedestrian street opposite Wellington Hospital linking to Adelaide Road, a childcare centre, restoration of the historic adjoining Old Manse and Church Hall and new contemporary townhouses.

The project was developed in close association with Heritage New Zealand, Wellington City Council and the projects Architectural Heritage Advisor. This prominent landmark building was originally constructed in 1899. It includes a mix of Italian Renaissance and Gothic features.

The church was deconsecrated in 2011, had been abandoned for many years and had fallen into significant disrepair. It was unloved, earthquake prone and was suffering from years of degradation.

The exterior was faithfully completely reconstructed with new cavity cladding, insulation, seismic strengthening, matching windows and ornate details. The only aesthetic external design changes allowed were the lowering of the arched window sills for the insertions of doors, skylights in the roof and windows installed in the bell tower.

There are now five three and four bedroom apartments that are between two and four stories in height, with mezzanine floors, bridges and a spectacular former bell tower.

New insertions were undertaken in contemporary style so that the legibility of the original and the alterations is evident. The original interior details including sarking, ornate trusses, rimu ceilings and ventilators have been restored. Native framing timbers were salvaged and reused throughout the building in the staircases.

This is a special project thanks to an amazing client, incredible builders, consultants, and the support of the Presbyterian Church.

The former St James Church’s future is now secure. The building will remain a prominent Newtown landmark for people to enjoy for many more years to come.

Novak + Middleton
Wellington
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St James Apartments

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Professional

Novak+Middleton is an NZIA award-winning architectural practice. We specialise in creating innovative and quality architecture, offering a comprehensive personalised service to our clients. The thirty year working relationship of the practice directors has grounded Novak+Middleton with extensive experience in all aspects of residential and commercial architecture, including large scale multi-unit housing, new homes, additions and alterations, and interior architectural design.

As an architectural practice we believe the strength of good design stems from a sensible and honest use of materials and space, combined together with a thorough understanding of a client's objectives. These can then be integrated in a contemporary manner that is appropriate to each individual client.

Our team has considerable experience, offering design and technical excellence. Our professional service covers all facets of the build, from the initial meeting through to completion of the project.

While our experience is essential, so too is our commitment to each individual client and their community. The ability to provide a quality service with an outstanding result is paramount in the philosophy of our architectural practice.