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In March 2023, the Winter Gardens were fully re-opened to the public following a complex two-year project to seismically upgrade and undertake major repairs and improvements to the glasshouses and wider site. The repairs and strengthening works were complex and required a number of changes to the structures, which have been carried out with the utmost care and attention to detail to ensure that the heritage values of the place have been protected and enhanced. This icon site has been conserved for the future. This has been accomplished on time and within the original estimates on behalf of Auckland Council.
A contemporary approach was taken with the design renovations. Careful attention was given to maintaining the warmth of the original house’s finishing and textural qualities. The house has been “opened up” to the rear yard including adding volume, a sense of space and connection to the outdoors. A large “Disco Dinorinus” kinetic wind sculpture by Phil Price takes centre stage on the rear lawn.
Axial sight lines are introduced through carefully considered strategic openings, and glazing linking various spaces together.
The most recent additions were modified with larger window fenestration and door openings. Architectural form and spatial qualities are further articulated with the addition of plywood and ceiling batten textures.
