2023 Canterbury Architecture Awards Winner
The Observatory Hotel and Observatory Tower, The Arts Centre of Christchurch
Approaching the earthquake-wrought rubble of a cornerstone heritage building in a cornerstone heritage precinct is a responsibility not to be taken lightly. Reconstruction of a building such as this requires a level of respect that borders on devotion, and the project team has clearly taken this approach. The care taken and tireless archaeological response is heart-warming. But beyond heritage, this building is an inspiring example of what can be achieved when a project is driven by an ambitious and innovative brief, and a strategic understanding of context. The architect’s response is thoughtful, respectful and injects vitality into an old building. More than that, the hotel is the cornerstone of a new, revitalised urban precinct. Inspiring.
- Practice
- Warren and Mahoney Architects New Zealand Ltd and Dave Pearson Architects Limited in association
- Category
- Heritage
- Location
- Canterbury
