The previous building on the site, destroyed in the seismic events of 2010 and 2011, was a traditional neighbourhood dairy. The essence of the design was to create a contemporary building that floated over the street, was interesting, and was of mixed use in character.
The work stations formed between the raw steel bracing, concrete floor and soft laminated timber beams and panels create a tactile and layered interior while complementing understanding the buildings structure. The access to the first level erupts into natural light form all perspectives, with the focus onto a deck space usable in all conditions. It provides an open and sharing culture.
The exterior dark ply cladding overlaid with cedar batons, appear to elevate a floating glass gable to something akin to the bridge of a vessel. The result is a contemporary corner stone that attracts community interaction, like the dairy did.