'Clever' little shed

A Little Red Shed in Cambridge has been named among the region's most exciting new building projects in the 2008 Waikato/Bay of Plenty Architecture Awards.

The awards are organised by the New Zealand Institute of Architects, supported by Resene. Judging panel convenor Jorgen Frandsen said standards and entry numbers were high, with over 60 projects entered and 33 shortlisted.

The judges visited all shortlisted properties and met with the architects and clients. The buildings were judged against criteria including their contribution to the advancement of architecture as a discipline and enhancement of the human spirit. The modest Cambridge property, designed by Antanas Procuta Architects and built as a farm worker's cottage, was a winner in the Small Project Architecture category.

It featured alongside such projects as the $25 million Rotorua Energy Events Centre. Judges hailed the building as an excellent example of how delightful results can be achieved on a very limited budget. Mr Frandsen said the building, Inspired by a milking shed close by, incorporated many "clever tricks". "It has been lifted clear of the mitre of the conventional box by a series of simple, well executed plan and form manipulations. A strict brief, limited means and an uncompromising site have not subdued the architect's efforts to offer unexpected delight."

The awards programme, which has a new format this year, was established by the New Zealand Institute of Architects to celebrate the innovation, creativity and excellence of architectural projects nationwide. The awards are open to all architect members of the NZIA practices, and projects can be entered into one or more of 10 categories.

Source: Cambridge Edition, November 5, 2008

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