Sweeping reforms

Even the most successful public attraction needs to evolve to stay vibrant and stimulate fresh interest. Often upgrading such facilities requires a multi-focused approach maximising existing space, realigning pedestrian flows and introducing new exhibits, all with the venue remaining open throughout.

Balancing the needs of a new stingray exhibit and its visitors by day with after hours requirements was just such a double-edged design brief handed to architectural firm Ignite.

Tourism Holdings, the owner of Kelly Tarlton's, is extending the visitor's journey through the attraction by introducing further exhibition spaces, says senior Ignite architect Peta Drayton.

"The first stage had involved replacing existing filtration plant for the aquariums with smaller, more efficient systems," says Drayton, "This freed up space in an existing building, which was used for stage two, creating a function venue and a new, state-of-the-art exhibit, Stingray Bay."

Working with project managers and structural engineers Thorburn Consultants, Ignite designed an open environment that has the stingray exhibit at its centre.

"Mindful of the space's dual use, a frameless, cantilevered aquarium was chosen for the stingrays, to avoid dominating the greater area," says Drayton. "Sculptural forms reminiscent of seashells were designed to conceal a kitchen, toilet facilities and an interactive Discovery Room within the open-plan space."

The shell-like forms provide an appropriate marine motif and contribute to the space's uncluttered look for functions.

Ignite also elected to retain the existing structural ceilings, allowing room for air conditioning and hanging event graphics.

"The exposed ducting creates a semi-industrial feel, with refined elements, such as the shell-like walls and aquarium, set off within it," says Drayton. "A sense of balance was integral to this project."

For more details, contact Ignite, 1 Watt St, Parnell, Auckland, phone (09) 356 4791. Email: petad@ignite-direct.com. Website: www.ignite-direct.com.

Story by: Trendsideas