Source: University of Otago
The redevelopment took a partially-roofed plaza and turned it into a modern, naturally lit hub
Te Kura Pakihi – Otago Business School won the Education category at the 2022 Otago/Southland Regional ADNZ Resene Architectural Design Awards.
The redevelopment by Dunedin firm Mason & Wales Architects took a partially-roofed plaza and turned it into a modern, naturally lit hub featuring Te Mātiti café.
The original main entrance and atrium were demolished and remodelled, and extra attention was paid to providing state-of-the art facilities to improve access for all users.
This week the BNZ Bloomberg Markets Lab, which is located on the ground floor of the building, was officially opened by Otago alumnus, Deputy Prime Minister Grant Robertson. The 12-terminal lab provides students and faculty staff access to real-time and historical financial market data, news and analysis.
The judging panel’s comments on the award include: “From what was once an enclosed and problematic space, comes this light-filled, activated campus.
“Through layout and transformative reuse of the existing structure, the architects have created a building that invites all students in and brings staff out of their offices — encouraging collaboration and communication and bringing a sense of promise to its now-bustling spaces. In a hero move — one that makes you wonder why it was ever different — the rear wall is opened up with glazing for views over the canal, lending a sense of place.”
Professor Robin Gauld, the Pro-Vice-Chancellor and Dean of the Otago Business School says, “We’re so proud of this space and its wonderful to see it gaining the recognition it deserves. It’s such a fine piece of architecture that will serve the University well into the future.”
In 2018 the Business School redevelopment won an Excellence Award in the Education category of the New Zealand Property Council Awards.
– Kōrero by Kerry Dohig, Communications Adviser (Projects)
