Jury citation
Ngā Mokopuna is an exemplar for the education sector and a response to the Living Building Challenge. The project demonstrates that sustainable design and great architectural outcomes are possible and can enhance the experience and wellbeing of the everyday users and the urban experience passersby on the Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington campus. The timber structure is carefully articulated, with the architects working in conjunction with the structural engineer, demonstrating that elegant outcomes are possible with developing timber technology. The atrium adds warmth and light to the predominantly timber interior, and the skewed stair adds a dynamic quality while solving planning issues with ease. Ngā Mokopuna sets the benchmark for others to follow.
