Meridian Building

Situated in the Kumutoto precinct on Wellington's waterfront, the Meridian building is seamlessly integrated into the surrounding maritime environment while also representing a strikingly distinctive and environmentally innovative architectural work in its own right.

The building, completed by Studio Pacific in association with Peddle Thorp architects, is articulated as two separate forms: a curved annex portion with rich textured external louvres to relate to the surrounding historic built fabric, and a smooth, glazed rectangular pavilion cantilevered out to seemingly float lightly above the water. The top floor of the annex has been set back like a lantern, visually relating to the roof lights of the neighbouring sheds, while the folding roof of the pavilion represents a modern interpretation of the varied roof forms of the sheds. The ground floor was also functions as a fluid, lively extension of the surrounding public area.

New Zealand's first 5 Green Star rated building, the Meridian Building uses partially recycled cement in the structure, significantly reducing CO₂ emissions. Within the building there is extensive exposed thermal mass, chilled beam technology and high efficiency light fittings, all contributing to a 60% lower energy consumption than a typical office building. A 70% reduction in water usage is also achieved through harvesting rainwater and using low flow fittings. All material selections are from sustainable sources wherever possible and are recyclable.