Future proofed

Achieving a good urban outcome was the focus for the company responsible for the planning and urban design of the Takanini Village development.

Transurban has been involved in the project since the original structure plan was developed more than a decade ago, says director Nick Rae.

"We were commissioned very early on in the process," he says. "The council had planned to change the zoning for the area, but we helped with an Environmental Court appeal to uphold the original structure plan to enable the first stage of this mixed-use centre to go ahead."

Rae says a priority for the urban design team was the integration of the centre with the adjoining Addison residential area, which had no supporting community infrastructure.

"We were very aware of the need to provide a high-street type environment along the Arion Road edge, with wide pavements, good amenities and accessible buildings. We wanted to avoid a big box scenario with the anchor tenant, so The Warehouse premises are wrapped with smaller retail premises.

"Consideration was also given to noise levels. The building forms were designed to screen noise from the railway line. The height of buildings at key locations was planned to assist with scale and legibility. We also wanted to avoid a sea of car parks, so buildings screen and visually break up these areas, with extensive landscaping helping to create a lush, green environment."

For more details, contact Transurban Limited, PO Box 90921, Victoria Street West, Auckland 1142, phone +64 9 309 2555. Alternatively email: nick.rae@transurban.co.nz. Or visit the website: www.transurban.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas