By Dalman Architects
The design of the Chapel Street Centre emphasises its predominant function as a place of worship. It is open and inviting, and features simple timber detailing inside and out.
It was awarded the NZIA 2017 New Zealand Architecture Award for Public Architecture.
The budget for this project was extremely tight and the construction was completed for only $4,000 per square metre.
Along with the worship space, the building consists of a sports hall, offices, kitchen and bible study lounges that are flexible in their use.
A quiet contemplative courtyard has been designed to the rear of the building and is accessed off the central entrance area.
The corner tower window alludes to the spire that featured in the old church on the site that was demolished after the Christchurch earthquakes, and the window fenestration elevates the cross to its prime position.
This is truly a community building that is constantly used by locals for all sorts of sporting and cultural events, as well as,
of course, for church services on Sundays.
Dalman Architects is a privately owned architecture and interior design company established in 1997. Our offices are based in Christchurch and Auckland, and we work throughout New Zealand and Asia-Pacific.
The success of Dalman Architects has been founded on our philosophy of performing for our clients by producing outstanding yet practical and cost effective architecture and interior design, backed up by a high standard of construction and interiors documentation.
While we win a lot of awards, these aren’t the reason why we do what we do. As architects and interior designers, we are passionate about creating enriching spaces where people live, work and play. Our client, Bruce Garrett, Managing Director of The George says “The proof, as they say, ‘is in the pudding’... I firmly believe the designs we have commissioned from Dalman have been a vital part of our success and form a key part of our brand positioning.”
Our studio works across many sectors including commercial, retirement villages, residential houses and apartments, heritage, public buildings, retail, recreational and community projects, industrial, hotels, resorts and tourism facilities.
Our designs are developed from our clients’ requirements and are always appropriate to the site and context. High value is placed on working closely with our clients to fully understand their objectives and to ensure they are met. We pride ourselves on communicating effectively with both clients and consultants, building robust relationships with all key stakeholders on our projects.
We know how to maximise the potential of sites, and have proven experience working with councils to ensure proposals get approved. We have assembled a team of specialist architects and interior designers who have a wealth of experience and knowledge. We are friendly and approachable, and we know you will enjoy working with us.