DPA Architects were engaged to undertake a structural upgrade to the neo-classical style building, which was seismically strengthened to 67% NBS. The building was also refurbished externally and internally with a number of heritage features that had previously been obscured reinstated during the upgrade. A new accessible entrance was also created as part of the transformation of this gracious building into a modern library facility within a heritage setting. The project was acknowledged with a Silver Award in the Heritage category of the 2024 New Zealand Commercial Project Awards.

Photography: Simon Wilson