* The refurbishment of Auckland War Memorial Museum was praised. The architect's job was to work with an existing landmark building which the jury found was done "with great respect, yet without trepidation."
Auckland's Noel Lane of Noel Lane Architects was honoured for "an exemplary example of the creative reinvention of
a landmark heritage building and cultural institution."
The strategy was to make the building and its collections paramount. This gave the project its strength, said the judges. The extensive use of steel and glass cases, armatures, plinths and mounts resulted in these objects becoming "fine sculptural objects in their own right." Artefacts were displayed to elevate and reveal their essence. This created a "compelling and dramatic" experience for visitors.
* Another national award went to the WestpacTrust Stadium in Wellington, which the judges said was a "tough site, formerly used as railway shunting yards." The architects were Warren & Mahoney, along with Brisbane's Bligh Lobb Sports Architecture (an association between two architectural practices).
"A contemporary colosseum, a powerful and dramatic sports theatre," said the judges. The stadium's elements, including its concrete frame, "aerodynamic roof" and the external skin have all been "rigorously refined."
The stadium has a spareness and simplicity which create a powerful architectural landmark for Wellingtonians.
Although the building is large, it provides a "surprising degree of intimacy and intensity" for both public and players. The stadium coped well with large crowds over a short period, with "a good circulation and internal service spaces."
* Christchurch architect Sir Miles Warren was awarded a gold medal in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the profession during the past 40 years. Sir Miles, who retired from Warren & Mahoney in 1995, designed Auckland's Union House at 32 Quay St on the city's waterfront in 1983.
The imposing, boldly designed 12-level concrete office block remains one of his many outstanding achievements.
Sir Miles is still in practice, but spends most of his time maintaining his famous garden at Ohinetahi on Bank's Peninsula.
