Media Release
4 December 2003

Mangere Library wins architecture award

The Mangere East Library has picked up yet another award to add to its growing list. It won an award in the 'Community and Cultural' category of the Auckland architecture awards and also a Resene Colour Award, run by the New Zealand Institute of Architects.

The NZIA Resene Local Awards for Architecture showcase the high quality work of NZIA Architect members to the local community. The Auckland judging team sifted through 96 entries, visited 39 sites and eventually made 27 awards, of which 10 went to houses.

Architects JASMAX were contracted by Manukau City Council to create a ‘community hub’. Opened in November 2002 the Library has succeeded beyond expectations with the recorded usage increasing more than 200 percent from the previous library building on the same site. The library has been a catalyst for future development in the area, with work on the shopping centre and the village green being planned.

The judges said, "A delightful and much-loved addition to Mangere's community and cultural scene, this library elegantly deals with the sometimes competing requirements of adults and children by skilful planning without any overt sense of separation.

"The popularity of the library as an after-school drop-in centre is clearly evident and testimony to the success of this attractive building. Contemporary Polynesian artworks are incorporated into the building fabric with style and subtlety and environmental considerations are handled very successfully."

The judges also commented on the colour award saying, "Vibrant colour is used with great success internally to help define the children's area and on the outside on a curved wall rich with cultural symbolism. These strategic bursts of colour are skillfully used to counterpoint the otherwise restrained palette."

Mayor Sir Barry Curtis says, "An exceptional design has seen the creation of a modern, functional, attractive building with a Pacific flavour. The finished product proudly reflects the community we serve."

The library, which is modern and light, with a Pacific feel, has created much excitement and has become a prominent feature in the community. Features include study areas, IT facilities and an outdoor reading courtyard.

Another of the outstanding features of the library is the artwork, which was conceived as an integral part of the building's planning from the beginning. Four of Manukau's leading artists worked with the architect and project team to interpret sites in, on and around the building, investing each with meaning.

The Mangere East Library has also won a 2003 Property Council of NZ Education & Arts Merit Award and 2003 IES Lighting Awards - Award of Commendation - Outdoor Category.

ENDS

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