2022 New Zealand Architecture Awards Winner
First Church of Christ Scientist (1991)
An exemplar of enduring post-modern New Zealand architecture, First Church of Christ Scientist is humble in scale with a whimsical yet serene sensibility. The two rectangular forms and wide courtyard are sensitively sited between the river, established trees and a busy road. Post-modern nods to the Parthenon in the form of coffered barrel-vaulted ceilings provide sculptural delight, while Mondrian-inspired artworks add playful colour. After the city’s earthquakes, demolition of the church was debated. Thankfully, over the course of nine years, its custodians have repaired this little gem, enabling it to shine into the future.
- Practice
- Warren and Mahoney Architects New Zealand Ltd
- Category
- Enduring Architecture
- Location
- Canterbury
