St Martins rebuild project was one borne out of harrowing circumstances. It pays homage to its former self that fell victim to the September 2010 earthquake. It did so in the greatest fashion by empathetically including bricks and other materials from the fallen building.

Masonry from a historic Centaurus Rd home, lost in the first major shake, was also used for the new library and community centre. The six-month build was completed on its former site at the corner of Wades and Wilsons Roads after more than six years of moving and uncertainty.

The result was a majestically presented landmark. The use of natural materials such as timber floors and plywood walls and ceilings brought a sense of warmth. This was accentuated by the high raking ceilings with clerestory windows that followed the roofline. The use of angled celestial windows and bi-parting flush sill Euroslider™ doors highlighted the buildings internal symmetry while also serving the brief of creating open easy access communal spaces.

The Atlantic48™ system joinery abuts many junctions that feature the salvaged bricks and creates a joyful tension where old meets new.

Location - Christchurch
Architect/ Designer - Plus Architects
Industry Sector - Recreation
Systems - Atlantic48™
Products - Biparting Euroslider™ doors, Commercial hinge door, angles Celestial Windows
Fabricator - Nebulite Garden City, Christchurch