FROM THE ARCHITECTS DRAWING
An important hub for the Lower Hutt community, Queensgate Shopping Centre was identified as earthquake prone following the Kaikoura earthquake in November 2016. The redesign and rebuild of the north-eastern corner of the centre, along with the car park, provided an opportunity to upgrade the external facade with a refreshed aesthetic.
Much of that aesthetic took inspirated from the nearby Hutt River, which influenced both the design and material selection. Balancing commercial needs with the desire to root the design in the local environment, the design was distinct without looking out of place. It also managed to complement the existing building whilst setting the scene for future expansion and development.
TO DESIGN REALITY
Solaris rectangular louvre blades, in varying profiles, were used to establish the standout visual element of the facade. The letter 'Q' is large without being garish or overpowering, the long tail of the letter tracing a route across the louvre blades. This effect is produced by the louvre blades featuring a precisely cut section which, when arranged in order, produce a seamless transition from blade to blade to form the letter.
To hide the fire egress stairs to the car park, a mesh screening featuring a custom pattern was fabricated in screens 8,500mm wide by 14,000mm high. Planter boxes attached to the outside of these screens are to house creeping plants which will make their way up ab across the mesh screening, eventually producing a living wall to add texture and natural colours to the facade.
The rebuild, now complete, has repositioned the Queensgate Shopping Centre for the future. It's destined to grow its role as a community hub that adds value to the local area, a muchneeded destination for commerce and entertainment for locals and visitors alike.
