Abstract

The library design draws on the imagery of books arranged under a canopy of pohutakawa trees for its sculptural form. This concept is supported by simple low maintenance, low energy sustainable design initiatives to provide a high quality user environment of enduring value.
The library is entered through a sheltered courtyard along with other existing amenities such as a theatre, art gallery, cinema and restaurant. On entering the library, the simple layout of central book shelves surrounded by a variety of seating, studying and meeting spaces is clearly apparent and easily navigated. A children’s reading platform rises above the book shelves and creates a playful environment as a pirates crow’s nest, Romeo and Juliet balcony or any other scene that may come to the imagination.
Large sliding doors open up the north side of the building providing a seamless indoor/outdoor flow to the new courtyard and amphitheatre space where stories might be read, outdoor chess played or music and theatre performed.
Orientation of the library has been considered to provide maximum sunlight into the building in winter with carefully proportioned roof overhangs providing shade in summer. The height and depth of the building has also been optimised to provide the best possible natural daylight and ventilation. Windows are all automatically controlled but can still be adjusted to suit individual comfort levels.
All rain is collected off the roof, stored in three large underground tanks, and supplies all the water needed for the building including a reservoir for firefighting. All windows are double glazed, roofs and walls highly insulated and an array of photovoltaic panels has been designed to provide all the energy required to run the building during summer.
Magnificent artwork by internationally renowned local artist Kazu Nakagawa has been fully integrated into the façade, wall linings and floor of the building.
Dialogue with Ngati Paoa iwi in regard to sensitive historical ancestral issues specific to the site led to sightlines significant to them being incorporated in to the open space courtyard design and marked by an installation of beautifully carved pou.