Central Library's new inviting look captures award

The large windows help the library to project a welcoming appearance to people passing by.

The transformation of an "awkward" corner into a welcoming space impressed judges at this year's New Zealand Institute of Architects Resene local awards for architecture.

Using huge frameless glass windows, Auckland architect GHD improved access to and visibility of the Auckland Central City Library, judges said, awarding it the prize in the community culture category.

The large double-hung shug windows - two sheets of sliding glass - removed the boundaries between inside and out, said judging panel convener and architect Paul Clarke, and meant the cafe had become the library's connection to the public.

The challenges of redeveloping the Lorne St-Wellesley St space included the "tight, awkward" corner location.

Judges said the architects "had used urban design awareness to give life to a CBD corner".

A further challenge for the architects was dealing with an already existing building which was perceived as being "a place where people went inside and had to be quiet", Clarkesaid.

However, the architects had created a meeting place where people could talk.

The cafe is part of a $2.6 million upgrade by the Auckland City Council and of the council's CBD Into the Future strategy.

The upgrade also included improving the layout of the library's ground and first floors.

All Access. All in one subscription. From $2 per week

Subscribe now

All Access Weekly

From $2 per week

Pay just

$15.75

$2

per week ongoing

Subscribe now

BEST VALUE

All Access Annual

Pay just

$449

$49

per year ongoing

Subscribe now

Learn more

30