Client:
The Coromandel Heritage Trust & Thames Coromandel District Council
Location:
Thames
Completion:
2014
Contact:
Patrick Clifford
This project restores and extends the historic Thames Carnegie Library to provide archive and genealogy facilities for the Thames Coromandel area.
Restoring and converting a listed heritage structure for use as an archive and genealogy centre provided unique design challenges. The specialised requirements of archive storage and management would compromise the heritage fabric of the original building so these have been designed as an extension to it.
Although built to provide town library facilities in the early 20th century, the library required careful conversion to satisfy the programme requirements of reception, research, storage, and administration. This has been achieved without compromising the heritage qualities of the building.
The extension is required to provide archive storage, work areas and secure management of the archival material in controlled climatic conditions. In a manner that is a clear expression of function, current design and technology, the extension adds to the existing building in a complimentary way that enhances its architectural qualities. The planning provides for secure retrieval of required archival material and controlled research and management of it.
Key responsibilities of the Architectus design team have been to:
This clever and elegant pair of buildings contributes a remarkable urban presence to Thames. Not only do they offer a wonderful amenity for locals and visitors alike, but they also have the power to transform the town’s view of the value of good architecture, in terms of both its historic and future heritage.
NZIA Waikato / Bay of Plenty Jury Citation 2015
Client:
The Coromandel Heritage Trust & Thames Coromandel District Council
Location:
Thames
Completion:
2014
Contact:
Patrick Clifford
NZIA New Zealand Architecture Award – Heritage 2015
NZIA Waikato/Bay of Plenty Architecture Award – Heritage 2015