-Housing New Zealand NZIA Local 2007
Award for Architecture
The project involved the design of 24 two bedroom apartments as part of the Housing New Zealand Talbot Park renewal in Glen Innes. The development is envisaged as a landmark housing and community redevelopment. Existing state owned units were removed and a new private access road was created to the north.
Ground floor units have enclosed courtyards and the upper units have generous decks, with the units being staggered to ensure privacy for these.
Four full height glazed atriums provide access to the units. All kitchens have windows that look on to this vertical street, reinforcing the chance of interaction and connection and therefore a sense of community and security. Landings provide places to meet and visibility from the streets and footpaths running perpendicular to the atriums.
Pre-cast concrete panels are clad in brick veneer referencing the New Zealand building tradition, and limited quantities of zincalume accent the projections of the atriums and living room spaces. These buildings offer solidity and permanence for its inhabitants.