Life in the fast lane

Right from the start, it was evident Chews Lane had exciting potential, says the company responsible for the development of the precinct. Mark McGuinness of Willis Bond & Co says that although Chews Lane was a dilapidated service lane, and many of the buildings were in a state of such disrepair they were a visual scar, the prime central city location was a winner.

"The site provides an important physical link from the civic centre to the east, through to the CBD to the northwest," McGuinness says. "We could see that a mixed-use redevelopment would maximise the heritage value of the site as well as its location, creating an interesting new destination for the city."

McGuinness says the redevelopment, which was designed by Athfield Architects, needed to retain the diversity of the existing streetscape, and architecturally significant buildings.

"Reusing the existing buildings not only protects their heritage value, but is also a responsible use of resources," he says. "These buildings were remodelled to create more effective interior spaces better suited to modern requirements. In addition, retaining original structural elements and incorporating these as features within the offices provides a unique working environment and adds richness to the buildings."

The restored buildings include 44 Victoria Street, originally built in 1959 in the International style; and 56 Victoria Street, built in 1927 an example of the Free Gothic style. These buildings now accommodate premium office space, retail outlets and a restaurant.

New buildings include the seven- and eight-level podia at 50 and 60 Victoria Street. The latter retains the heritage facade of the old Ballinger Building and provides eight floors of car parking, disguised by bands of pod offices along the exterior. The new building at 50 Victoria Street is now fully leased to the New Zealand Transport Agency.

McGuinness says that altogether, the Chews Lane precinct provides approximately 15,000m² of office premises, 19 retail stores at ground level, including fashion, arts and travel stores, and six food and beverage outlets in Chews Lane itself.

"The development offers original opportunities not readily available within the CBD. Along with very large, modern office floor plates, there are boutique retail opportunities with access to the lane, which is sheltered from prevailing winds and is an attractive space for social interaction."

Another key architectural feature is the new apartment tower that straddles the two podia at 50 and 60 Victoria Street. Chews Lane Apartments provides 97 apartments and incorporates a landscaped outdoor area on top of the 60 Victoria Street podium.

McGuinness says Willis Bond worked closely with Athfield Architects and the Wellington City Council, which, as a signatory to the Urban Design Protocol, had developed an Urban Design Brief for Chews Lane.

For more details, contact Willis Bond & Co, PO Box 24137, Wellington 6142, phone (04) 805 0000. Website: www.willisbond.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas