In an effort to enhance the civic activities of Cathedral Square, the second level houses a Community Arena – a space for the people of Christchurch to discuss, debate, share, and celebrate. The Community Arena is expressed as a distinct volume within the form of the library, and is positioned to maximise its visual connection to the square.
The second level of the library is also home to Ngā Purapura, a children’s area named for Ngāi Tahu ancestral traditions. Ngā Purapura includes a children’s reading cave and an activity room.
The building’s five levels are connected by a grand, staggered atrium featuring a social staircase for gathering, reading, and resting. The design of the atrium references Tāwhaki, a superhuman from ancestral traditions, and his determined pursuit of knowledge in his ascent through the heavens. Puaka, a significant star for the local Ngāi Tahu tribe, is referenced in the patterned skylights above the atrium.
Credit list
Client
Christchurch City Council
Principal collaborating architect
Architectus
Structural engineer
Lewis Bradford Consulting Engineers
Competition
Winner of contract in an international competition, 2013
Lead design architect
Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects
Main contractor
Southbase Construction
Cultural consultants
Matapopore Charitable Trust
19 Dec, 2018