The Terrace
With the loss of a row of restaurants and bars in the Christchurch Earthquakes, the vision for this project was to create a world-class, self-sustaining precinct that sets a new benchmark for sustainable mixed-use developments in Aoteaora.
Project Details
| Sector | Commercial |
| Location | Ōtautahi Christchurch |
| Discipline | Architecture, Urban Design |
| Status | Completed 2018 |
| Size | 8,500 sqm |
| Design Collaborators | NH Architecture |
A compelling mixed-used development
The vibrant, living neighbourhood integrates 17 hospitality businesses, retail and office space, including the Westpac Headquarters; the whole development is intersected and activated by a series of character laneways.
People are paramount to this vision. Two key drivers for the concept were to create a living room for the city // Te Wahi Whakamahana and be the best possible hosts // Whakamanuhiri.
The expanded 8,500-sqm development site occupies half a city block, stretching East from Oxford Terrace and the Avon River, North to Hereford Street with Cashel Street forming its southern boundary.
The masterplan sought to connect the development with the Avon River and create a character and grain that enables a vibrant, living, urban neighbourhood in the heart of the city — a place where culture, commerce and community can thrive.
Optimise, not maximise
A key decision was to optimise – not maximise the site. The scheme builds 40% of the possible area, providing multiple opportunities for the design of compelling public realm spaces and the creation of an appropriate urban grain.
Urban design moves such as the tight grain built form, modest scale and massing, the laneway network and the choice of materials give the development presence as well as providing a suitable response to the river corridor it over looks.
The building massing on site has been carefully considered to create an enticing environment at ground level and Level 1 for the public and to maximise daylight, solar access and views to the upper levels of offices and hotels, while satisfying required commercial parameters.
Awards
| 2019 | NZIA Local Awards - Planning & Urban Design |