12 Oxford Terrace
12 Oxford Terrace
2022, Christchurch
The client’s brief was simple – a new six-storey office building with full site coverage. Through considered and efficient planning the result has been a commercially viable design and planning response to site specific restraints and opportunities.
The lower levels occupy the full footprint of the site and create a strong connection to the river. Vehicle access for cars and cycles is at rear of site to reinforce the pedestrian focus of Oxford Terrace and river precinct. The upper levels are set back from the street, with a terrace at Level 4 and a balcony at Level 5, providing outdoor space and a connection to the established trees lining the river below.
To make the most of the north facing site and views of the Otakaro/Avon River the circulation core and services are located along the east boundary allowing for an open plan tenancy space with natural light on three sides. Rather than hiding the core at the back of the building, the lift and stairs were brought to the street front and a full-height window added at the landing allowing light into the core as well as a view back to the street and trees along Ōtākaro/Avon River as you move through the building. The north façade is a layering of exposed structure, glazing and gold mesh.
On the exterior the mesh screens shimmer and emphasize the verticality and the luminous colour changes with the time of day. The angle of the screens offers different perspectives depending on the direction of your approach. Inside, the mesh screens create veiled views of the tree canopy outside and flashes of colour.
Photography Credit: Stephen Goodenough
