Symonds St Conveniences and Former Tram Shelter
By Salmond Reed Architects
Salmond Reed have been instrumental in the restoration and seismic upgrade of the building which was completed in 2022, not only coordinating the seismic upgrade and major repairs to the building, but designing and implementing the complete restoration of the interior of the the building. The building now meets the standard of >67% of the New Building Standard and has been re-presented with robust finishes and detailing that reflects the historic importance of this architectural gem of a building.
The Symonds Street Public Conveniences and Former Tram Shelter was Auckland’s first public toilet to provide facilities for women and it is one of the only above-ground public toilets and only dual-purpose tram shelters of its time.
The design response sought to reinstate heritage features uncovered, such as historic wall tiling and coloured concrete flooring through investigation and supported by historical research. The interior was designed to preserve existing finishes and reinstate original detailing wherever practicable with the removal of unsympathetic fabric from past 'modernisations' and alterations. The design guided the seismic strengthening intervention of the new structural members concealed within the existing heritage fabric. New fittings, partitions and linings to hide service routes were designed using stainless steel and modern laminates as a contemporary contrast to the original repaired plaster and tiled finishes.
Therefore, there were numerous challenges with the project being on restricted and sloping site, with the building’s proximity to the street, bridge, and cemetery were a significant constraint for the site works and design. The works included re-roofing and improvements to the rainwater disposal system, replastering externally and internally, brickwork repairs and a new polished coloured concrete floor. The tram shelter seating was re-introduced as per the original design. New external feature lighting was installed, which illuminates the beautiful features of the building at this dark corner of Grafton Bridge.
This upgraded facility continues to serve its original purpose as a public toilet and now restored to its former glory, provides a significant architectural contribution to the streetscape to which it belongs.
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SALMOND REED ARCHITECTS is an award winning architecture and conservation practice founded by NZIA Gold Medal recipient Jeremy Salmond. We bring thirty years’ of nationwide experience and expertise to your project, whether it involves the sensitive adaptation of a character building or the design of a contemporary structure in a sensitive environmental setting (or, indeed, a combination of both.)
Directors Rosalie Stanley, Lloyd Macomber, and Philip Graham, lead a staff of around twenty talented registered architects and graduates, chartered building surveyors, heritage consultants and support staff, all of whom share a resolve to deliver optimum project solutions to meet client aspirations and budgets.
Specialist staff have an in-depth knowledge of traditional building materials and techniques, enabling them to advise on the application of modern architectural conservation practice for older buildings, while our designers also maintain a strong grasp of modern building technologies and materials to bring excellence to our contemporary designs.
SALMOND REED ARCHITECTS is a recognised leader in the application of modern architectural conservation practice in New Zealand and has played a leading role in the resolution of potentially difficult conflicts between preservation and development of older structures.
So, let us assist with your next project.
SALMOND REED ARCHITECTS: Contemporary with character.