Selected Project
Birkenhead Library
The new Birkenhead Library and Civic Centre is a purpose-built new generation 2,600m2 library situated on a reserve site in Birkenhead, Auckland, New Zealand. The architectural concept for the library is based around a simple narrative of looking through ancient trees that existed on the site to the view - thus notions of solid and void, transparency, light quality, pattern, materiality and form were considered and modeled to inform various design demands. The intention was to have a pleasant and verdant quality of light available within the building that subtly changes during the day, leading to the building becoming transparent at night. The building enjoys a unique setting in the existing elevated Neil Fisher War Memorial Reserve. The reserve has been upgraded to both complement and enhance the building and the library is positioned to take account of the expansive and panoramic views available including Rangitoto, Coromandel Peninsula and the CBD in the east and the Waitakere Mountains in the west. The new Birkenhead Library and Civic Centre makes a noticeably positive contribution to the surrounding built environment. The return of a library to the heart of the Birkenhead business district, after a four year absence, has been welcomed by all.
- Category
- 25 Year Award for Enduring Architecture
- Location
- Auckland
- Year
- 2020
