229 Lichfield
The building was damaged in the 2011 Christchurch eartquake - but survived, unlike the surrounding buildings.
The philosophy behind the building upgrade was to express the structure required to increase the structural capacity and make the resiliance obvious. The existing concrete post and beam construction was strapped with structural steelwork, and the exterior was reclad with weathered corten steel.
Internally the office space was softened with stained plywood, and the timber roof sarking was exposed and stripped back, adding warmth to the uncompromising steel exterior.
NZIA New Zealand Architecture Awards citation "the reinvention of an earthquake-damaged building speaks of resilience and survival. The structure is expressed externally through oversized steel members that also showcase the structural grid of the building. The gritty and low-maintenance exterior is, however, broken up along the street frontage with sections of glazing that enable the building to display a soft and warm interior. Aesthetically, the building successfully reflects the natur of business undertaken by the structural engineers who occupy the interior. This is a good example of what can be achieved within the constraints of a tight budget".
In the ADNZ Resene Awards, judges described it as "a bright light on the horizon and that the project stands as a symbol of survival and robustness surrounded by cleared sites, broken buildings and infrastructure. The vibrant yellow emanating from within lends a strong sense of optimism and energy to all who pass by and all who pass through. It's a statement of colour and commitment that stands tall and proud."