Client : Waitaki District Council
Building Type : New Building Extension
Floor Area : 807m2 over three levels
Design : 8 months approx
Construction : Commenced early 2025
The Forrester Gallery in Oamaru is housed in a Category 1 listed, Neo classical building originally constructed in 1884.
The gallery required a new extension to house a growing collection of artworks, a multi-purpose Education Space, plus provide much-needed staff facilities. A design for the building had already been undertaken but lacked rhythm and balance, so Tilt Architecture was engaged to re-imagine the exterior design of the extension. This involved stringent requirements from the Client and Heritage NZ - The extension was required to be clad in locally sourced Oamaru Stone, the building footprint could not be changed, windows placements were limited, and there was a very strict budget in place. We explored different solutions to the external appearance.
The final scheme delivers a building which has a simple, elegant presence and provides a contemporary balance to the detailed heritage building in front. The two buildings are linked by a full-height glazed atrium. Tilt has undertaken the full detailed design for the envelope and is providing further input into the interior spatial arrangement and finishes.
Constrcution has commenced in early 2025, and we know this will become a valuable asset for the Council over the long term.
Check it outnext time you’re in the region: https://www.culturewaitaki.org.nz/Forrester-Gallery