Wellington Airport, Stage 02, Wellington
In association with external apron works, the project involves the expansion of open lounge floor area within the International Passenger Terminal, new retailing, linkages from the enlarged and reconfigured passenger processing area generated in Stage 01, and an increase to eight aerobridge capable gates from the original six.
The brief was for functionality, planning efficiency, economy in building materials and construction, optimisation of the available pocket building site (heavily constrained by aircraft maneuverability and choreography), and a double ambition of creating a memorable visitor experience through an "edgy" aesthetic.
This has been tackled head on and in a multiplicity of ways. The concept of a crusty enigmatic rock or rocks perched on the runway is provocative and daring, and is a radical departure from what has gone before.
The Rock becomes a haven; anchored and embedded in the land. It becomes a polar opposite to contemporary airports both worldwide and within New Zealand that are preoccupied with the imagery of flight.
Wellington's wild south coast is an inspiration for the Rock - capturing its geological, historical and mythological past.
The Rock is captivating, exudes warmth and resounds with personality. This is in contrast to the bland halls that typify most international airports with their mall-like interiors. Spaces unfold on varying levels and exploration is welcomed, allowing travelers, who may be required to spend more time in airports now with security procedures becoming increasingly more stringent and time consuming, to meet some respite. It is intimate. The Rock offers a memorable visitor experience, which will be both arresting and calming.
The project is on-site and due to open in the second half of 2010. (In association with Architecture Warren and Mahoney).
Client: Wellington International Airport Ltd.
