Urban Homes Development
This sleek refurbishment involved stripping back the existing facade to expose the raw concrete structure. Structural glazing envelopes the building, providing a streamlined exterior and a glimpse of the skeletal remains within.
The intentional contrast creates a dialogue between slick modern structural glazing and the rough tactile surface of the concrete. Full-length glazing allows natural light to flood the interior and provides views and visual connection to the street, cityscape and beyond. The rough surface of the exterior concrete has influenced the interior design which leans towards an industrial aesthetic.
"Occupying a prominent corner of Hamilton’s CBD, Urban HQ shows us that the architects’ manifesto for intelligent renewal of Hamilton’s urban fabric continues with gusto. Denying the condemnation of a disused 1950s building to mere landfill, the architect has sustainably retained the existing structure and deftly cloaked it in a new performance-oriented skin. The existing building is acknowledged by way of an exposed concrete structure, which is contrasted by clean, modern lines to heighten the appreciation of both. This modern, future-proofed office building is a delight in its combination of memory and function."
- NZIA Waikato / Bay of Plenty Jury
Date of the project - 2020
Location - Hamilton, Waikato
Professionals used in Urban Homes Development
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About the
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From urban spaces and workplaces, to private homes and holiday retreats, we believe good design should create an enriching experience that inspires individual and social well-being.
From our studios in the Waikato and Bay of Plenty we offer a comprehensive architectural service, extending from the macro level of master planning to the tactile experience of intimate interior spaces.
Each of our projects is an opportunity to bring together, people, capability and resource, in order to produce the highest outcome. Our design-led and pragmatic approach develops design responses that are thoughtful and beautiful yet grounded in a deep understanding of craftsmanship and technology.
Since Edwards White began in 2005 we have been designing with a deep respect of the environmental context. We believe that early integration of sustainability into conceptual thinking, leads to rich design outcomes that positively shape our environment and our culture. We’re also taking additional steps to improve the way our decisions and operations support a low carbon future, and are committed to the education and implementation of these practices.
- Year founded2005
- ArchiPro Member since2016
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