2011 New Zealand Architecture Awards Winner
Waitomo Glowworm Caves Visitor Centre
A project of great daring, embodying the vision of the client, demonstrating the skill of the Architect and benefitting from a close collaboration with the engineer. The Waitomo Glowworm Caves Visitor Centre is an excellent piece of building making. Standing in counterpoint to the subterranean experience that awaits its visitors, the building has a poetic quality that sustains multiple readings - as hinaki, or eel trap, for example, or cave of light. The graceful and welcoming canopy is breathtaking in the extent of its span and the fine complexity of the lightweight grid that supports it. Architecture and engineering meet seamlessly in this finely executed building which deftly choreographs its functional and commercial programme, whilst offering a generous and legible entree to the natural wonders of the Glowworm Caves. A famous destination is now far more than an underground attraction.
- Practice
- Architecture Workshop Ltd
- Category
- Commercial Architecture
- Location
