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Cathedral of theBlessed Virgin Mary
Rotokauri Residence
Pirongia Hillside Residence
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Trio of awards for Antanas Procuta Architects
Three strikingly different building projects, including the redevelopment of a Hamilton landmark, won regional awards for city-based firm Antanas Procuta Architects on Friday night (Oct 30 2009).
The redevelopment of the Catholic cathedral on Grey St won the Public Architecture category in the annual NZIA NZ Architectural Awards. Antanas Procuta Architects led the project’s design in association with local architects Chibnall Swann. The judges were impressed by the architects’ design and sensitive response to the Cathedral of the Blessed Virgin Mary’s heritage and community location remarking on the “clever use of the building’s elevated site and of the projecting entrance portico further emphasise the impression of height, ensuring that this remains one of Hamilton’s landmark buildings.”
Two contemporary homes by the practice also won awards. An elegant and intricately designed Rotokauri residence won the Residential Architecture award. Architect Geoff Lentz was responsible for the design that takes advantage of the site’s position to connect twin pavilions, capturing all day sun and views. The result is a serene light-filled interior the judges described as a “spreading gracefully across the site, taking full advantage of the space available and the stunning views on all sides. The bold form and sculptural simplicity of the building belies its intricate detail.”
The practice also had success in the Residential Architecture award category with a Pirongia based home. Perched high on the Pirongia hillside, the winning project is a house nestled next to a native bush reserve. The simple structure frames spectacular views and a restrained choice of materials ensures attention is to the surrounding environment. Judges commended the “brilliant simplicity . . . the discrete exterior of this house hide a delightful and timeless living space. The clever concept has all rooms apart from service areas facing north and enjoying the wonderful panorama that is Mt Pirongia.”
Practice Principal Antanas Procuta is delighted with the firm’s latest accolades saying “The awards are recognition of the quality of the work we undertake as well as marking the success of the collaboration between client, architect and builder. It is particularly gratifying for the Cathedral award - which is one of the key landmark buildings in Hamilton - and we hope we have enhanced the building in Hamilton’s cityscape while respecting the original architecture.”
Procuta added that the competition for awards encouraged architects to aim for the very best, noting that sustainable architecture and urban design was now a recognized strength of the practice.
These three award winning projects are united by a singular strand of excellence. Antanas Procuta Architects’ approach to design is underpinned by their recognition that ultimately the architecture is about making everyday activities special.
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