Architect’s Vision
Architect’s Statement
It is a rewarding project to again be involved with major design work on the City Gallery. The original conversion of the old public library was an opportunity to create a contemporary art gallery in an historic building; this project allows us to create architecture that offers new spatial experiences both internally and in the public realm.
We have treated the new work on the Gallery as a contemporary layer, allowing the richness of the building's history and 1930’s stripped classical architecture to be expressed. It communicates the Gallery’s contemporary focus, while the original retains visibility and dignity. The addition will be clad in an open metal webgrate rainscreen, identifying it as discrete from the original building, and forming a relationship with the contemporary stair and lift tower additions of 1993. The rainscreen is simple, bold, yet unexpected, supporting City Gallery’s role to challenge preconceived notions of art and design.
The character of the new galleries is derived from the ceilings. These are elevated; a roof lantern will increase the sense of height and space, while providing controlled natural light. The proposed flooring is solid unfinished timber boards laid in the manner of old warehouse floors, and will acquire a patina acknowledging age and past exhibitions.
Perhaps the most noticeable change will be the Russell Hancock Gallery, replacing the existing cinema. This will connect directly to the foyer, increasing options for hosting functions and events. Revealing the original windows in the north façade will improve transparency into the Gallery and provide a connection to Harris Street.
Stuart Gardyne
architecture +
Profile of Architect
Stuart Gardyne is a director of architecture +, a Wellington based architectural design consultancy. In 1992/3, Gardyne converted the old Wellington public library into a contemporary art gallery for City Gallery Wellington. The project earned him a National Award from the NZ Institute of Architects and a Carter Holt Harvey Heritage Award. In 2008, Gardyne won an NZIA Supreme Award, the highest honour from the architecture fraternity, for Conservation House in Wellington. Other award-winning projects by architecture+ include PATAKA in Porirua and Expressions Art and Entertainment Centre in Upper Hutt.