Architecture

Awarded the National Award for Hospitality and Tourism by the New Zealand Institute of Architects 2007

Introduction to the Brick Bay Sculpture Trail

The Glass House- Statement by Architect, Noel Lane

I aspired to design a site-specific building that captured the atmosphere of the historical and current industries of the area; that is to say, a building that referred to the area’s agricultural roots (slatted timber floors of the nearby shearing shed) and to the glass transparency and necessary shade-cloth of the horticultural hothouse.

As a gateway, this structure straddles the original dam bar and transfers the visitor from the new urban surrounds to the mysteries of the concealed sculpture walk beyond. It was required to be a confined space of conflicting activities, transience and rest, akin to the original colonial verandah.

Areas designed for private activities, such as food preparation, administration, ablutions and storage, are defined as containers of colour and light, and are thus clearly a visible aside from the adjacent communal areas.

Initially approached by vehicle from above, the building contains the lake edge and softly encloses the viewer’s vista, while the bridging nature of the structure spanning south to north, emphasizes the gorge running to the sea beyond. On the final approach by foot from below, the building sits above the earth and lake, allowing the lake surplus to wash beneath it, both physically and visually.

Introduction to the Brick Bay Sculpture Trail