New Zealand Commercial Design Trends Series NZ Commercial Design Trends Vol. 30/12 | Page 22

intended to resemble faux copper – it is a totally
different material with its own character. But with
the resource consent already provided, it made
sense to retain the soft green palette.”
The south facade of the building features a large,
fully glazed commercial curtainwall positioned on
a 45° angle. The curtainwall encloses a secondary
stairwell, and is separated from the gallery spaces
by an internal wall.
“Putting this diagrid element on an angle gives
it visual energy,” says Mitchell. “The glazing also
allows people using the stairs inside to appreciate
the magnificent bush and harbour views, and the
people travelling through this circulation area help
to animate the exterior.”
Similarly, the long slot windows in the building,
which bring light into the main spiral staircase and
landings, are enlivened by the foot traffic inside.
The architect says the form of the building was
also influenced by the need to provide a variety of
gallery spaces of different sizes.
“This modulation meant we could utilise the

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idea of tension and release – visitors move from
the bright, light and airy circulation areas with their
expansive views, to the compressed, internal
gallery spaces.
A dramatic spiral staircase links all the main
floors, with LED cove lighting accentuating its
sculptural form. On the top level the stairs open to
a stair bridge across to the rooftop terrace on the
old building. Another bridge, used by staff, links the
two buildings at a lower level.
Openings between the gallery spaces and
circulation areas bring indirect natural light into the
galleries while avoiding damaging UV rays.
“They also provide a peep into the exhibition
spaces beyond, so they have a curiosity value,”
says Mitchell. “People can look across voids to
another gallery, and they can see a little of the
artwork on show.”
The large gallery on the top level reflects a more
unusual approach to light control – the design team
created a large, lantern-like light diffuser that sits
directly beneath a central skylight.

Below:The gallery entry takes
the form of a solid portal that
opens into a light-filled reception
area and gift shop.
Right:The building provides
a variety of different-sized
gallery spaces with openings
that overlook voids and provide
glimpses of other exhibition
spaces.
Following pages:A sculptural
staircase winds up one side
of the building. Windows
in this key circulation area
provide expansive views of the
surrounding bush and sea. These
bright, open spaces contrast the
darker, more compressed nature
of the galleries.