First Principles Architects were the proud recipients of 3 awards at the recent New Zealand Institute of Architects Awards ceremony in Taupo.

​

Judges Comments:

 

Mangatawa Tari:

Standing alone in the foothills of the Papamoa Range, this beacon on a hill is sited to capture expansive views. It is also firmly grounded, anchored not just to site but to iwi via a narrative of three whales, Kopukairoa, Mangatawa and Hikurangi – the inspiration for the design concept. Taking the idea of a whale’s tail as a generator for the plan and roof structure, the architects have created a piece of work that is functional, culturally fitting and strongly connected to a special site.

​

Tauranga Intermediate:

This is a good example of a well-planned modern learning environment with a variety of spaces suitable for different pedagogies. In plan, the school’s three interconnecting learning ‘pods’ radiate out from a shared amphitheatre. The architects have considered connections to environment as well to classmates. The central circulation links the pods to a covered courtyard, essential shelter in sunny Tauranga. Refreshing yet calm, the environment created on a modest budget is impressive.

​

Winner:          Tauranga Intermediate -    Education Award Winner

Winner:          Tauranga Intermediate -    Resene Colour Award Winner

Winner:          Mangatawa Tari -                Commercial Architecture Award Winner

Shortlisted:   Mount Central -                  Commercial Architecture Shortlisted

​

​