Tranquil Garden

Distinction Award from the NZILA for Design, 2013 The objective for this underused school area was to provide an inspirational space for contemplation, outdoor learning and enjoyment, while also offering the students useful and comfortable areas to gather.  Get Outside Ltd chose materials and elements to reference the landscape of Rangitoto Island, which the college overlooks. We employed many different characteristics of water to stimulate the students’ minds; gushing from a boulder, falling over an edge, running along a "fault line", resting reflectively around the texture and shape of boulders. Plants were selected for the raised gardens to provide year-round interest, with shrubs, trees and perennials that provide colour throughout the different seasons. As well as referencing Rangitoto Island’s volcanic geology, the design is also informed by what we perceived to be a real strength of the College; a structured school environment in which students' individuality is celebrated. Hence there is a strong geometric framework contrasted with the random character of boulders, some in groups and some alone, drifting through the spaces and loosely connected together to provide seating areas for the students to gather. The hard elements of concrete and wood are balanced with the softness of water and planting. This project was completed in 2010 and has become a treasured space for students to enjoy.