2006.09 parklands library

library conversion of existing church building

crispin schurr design architect at ccc

programme

  • existing church conversion / extension

  • 500m² floor area

  • multipurpose library

  • computer area, cafe

  • staff, storage, ablutions

  • art to be integrated into all aspects of building

  • low maintenance materials

issues

  • after hours access required to meeting areas

  • existing building introspective without landscape connection

  • domestic grade structure

  • connection to shopping centre required

  • mobile fixtures required for after hours community access / use

solutions

  • ends of the building and sides extended to reach out and engage urban setting

  • structure upgraded for public building

  • large cantilever eaves provide summer solar protection

  • window walls at ends of book stack axis providing deep natural light penetration

  • cost effective new profiled steel / plywood cladding

  • pergola provides covered access & facade layering

  • custom designed mobile furnishings

  • all book shelves mobile

  • half of stack space able to be reformatted and secured for after hours public access

  • woven aluminium mahi raranga

  • commissioned carpet artwork

  • outdoor sculpture garden

status

  • completed

awards

  • nz timber design awards - runner up

  • civic trust award

  • nzia resene colour award

  • nzia local architecture award

Modern building with angular roof design, illuminated from inside, surrounded by parking lot and landscaped plants, with leafless trees in background at dusk.
Interior of a library with large windows, several people sitting in chairs and on a sofa, reading or using devices, with sunlight streaming in.
Inside a library with a service desk, shelves of books, and several children and adults. Sunlight streams through large windows at the back.
Interior of a library with a reception desk, a child holding books walking, and a woman working at the counter. There are bookshelves, chairs, and large windows letting in natural light.
View of a modern building with glass windows, an outdoor seating area with tables and chairs, and a sculpture of a bird in a circle in the foreground.