Crowning glory

AS WELL AS a meeting place for a range of complementary skills, the Auckland War Memorial Museum's Grand Atrium proved to be a project that encouraged a meeting of minds. While Noel Lane was responsible for the development of the overall idea, he was given technical support from a team of architects from Peddle Thorp Aitken.

It was this support, acknowledges Lane, that provided him with the opportunity to clear his head, giving him breathing space in which to contemplate the bigger picture.

For Brian Aitken, director of Peddle Thorp Aitken, the opportunity to work on the iconic public building, which plays such an important part in New Zealand's cultural and historic heritage, was a welcome challenge.

"The building embodies the work of many professional people and organisations and will continue to evolve in the future," he says.

"There were significant challenges to be overcome in the development of the design and construction processes, including floor level adjustment problems, the integration of the new Grand Atrium within the existing museum, and maintaining the design integrity of the concept while solving the associated technical problems. Resolution of the construction of the building was carried out within the constraining parameters set down by Auckland City and Heritage criteria, and carried out while the museum continued to function on a daily basis."

Peddle Thorp Aitken carried out detailed research on the construction of the copper dome, ensuring the waved-glass dome's form met the strict requirements of the resource consent. In-depth research was also necessary on the construction of the suspended Fijian kauri-clad bowl in the Grand Atrium, as well as for the artefacts collection storage areas in the underground basement. The increase of the floor area on the ground of the grand atrium has allowed for a Special Exhibits Centre to be included as additional exhibit space

For further information, contact Peddle Thorp Aitken, 23 Customs Street East, Auckland, phone (09) 379 9405. Website: www.peddlethorp.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas