Facebook Tweet Help Stories Civic & Institutional , Education Landmark Position Share Tweet Help Based on energy efficient design principles, the new Papamoa Library and Community Centre provides a significant cultural addition to the community A view of the Papamoa Library designed by Chow:Hill Architects. A local council has a responsibility to ensure its citizens feel a connection with, and take pride in, any new civic project it undertakes. For the new Papamoa Library and Community Centre, Tauranga City Council's latest venture, a number of architects were invited to submit proposals. This particular competition was won by Chow:Hill Architects.As this was only the second new building commissioned by the council in 20 years, architect John van Cingel says it wanted a culturally significant design. Standing at the entrance to the new Palm Beach Plaza, Chow:Hill's design features an entry tower representing a lighthouse, while the wave form of the curved, sloping roof refers to the beach and sea 500 metres away. A view of the Papamoa Library designed by Chow:Hill Architects. "Furthermore, because it is a long-term investment for the council, energy use was a major design consideration," explains Cingel.To achieve the requirement for low energy consumption, insulated, pre-cast concrete panels maintain an even temperature in the building. Water pipes in the floor cool the slab or heat the building via a heat pump, large roof overhangs limit solar access, and highly efficient light fittings produce high light levels for a low heat output. The shape also assists the passive heating and cooling process heat rises naturally along the sloping ceiling, then disperses through pop-up roof windows. A view of the Papamoa Library designed by Chow:Hill Architects. For more information, contact Chow:Hill Architects, PO Box 13 493, Tauranga 3141, phone (07) 577 1219, fax (07) 577 9548. Website: www.chowhill.co.nz. Story by: Trendsideas 12 Dec, 2006 Civic and Institutional Design Education Trendsideas Home kitchen bathroom commercial design Latest Post Lean and green 21 Apr, 2024 Stretching out to nature 21 Apr, 2024 Weathered charm 21 Apr, 2024 We know the Specialists Similar Stories