Architectus to design new Student Association building

Architectus has won a competition to design the new Student Association Building for the University of Canterbury Student Association in Christchurch. Damage to the existing building as a result of 2011 earthquake has necessitated its replacement.

The project presents a unique opportunity to create a student centred ‘home away from home’ that is an iconic reflection of student activity on campus and caters to the needs and diversity of the student community.

The new building will be at the heart of student activities with a series of interconnected student-focused social, events and performance spaces with a strong connection to the adjacent river and landscaping. The University of Canterbury’s expertise in structural timber is celebrated through a series of structural timber ‘trees’ supporting the central spine of the roof.