PIONEERING PROJECTS
Beaumont Quarter
Built on the site once home to the Auckland Gas Company, the Beaumont Quarter development successfully introduced a contemporary residential neighbourhood amongst the historical brick gasworks buildings which were over a century old. Justifiably, the Beaumont Quarter has since earned widespread plaudits and was, and still is, seen as the yardstick for medium-density development, both here and abroad.
Set in a space other developers couldn’t bring to life, the Beaumont Quarter stands as an enduring testament to steadfast design and planning, the quality of which had not been seen. Undertaking the renewal of a forgotten, but key part of the city, McKenna brought a vision to redefine community and introduce fully approachable architecture to the Auckland landscape.
Working within a cliff line, heritage buildings, hills and the city surrounds-what was once thought impossible was delivered. The consequence of exhaustive investigation, research and the work of a collection of the world’s best architects, engineers and planners. The team drew inspiration from European waterfronts and the high calibre of medium density developments they embodied.
The Beaumont Quarter exemplified a collaborative effort, in every respect. Studio Pacific Architecture conceived the master plan, as well as Stage 1, S333 was called upon to design Stage 2 and the Sydney-based architect Ian Moore designed Stage 3.
The homes are characterised by high-quality, contemporary fittings and furnishings with an emphasis on liberal and open living areas. Building height enhanced natural light and many homes were featured with private outdoor areas like courtyards, rooftop patios or decks – some with remarkable city views. Residents enjoy a gym, heated swimming pool, spa and sauna residing in one of the historic brick Gasworks buildings, beautifully restored- with modernity added.
The homes are characterised by high-quality, contemporary fittings and furnishings with an emphasis on liberal and open living areas. Building height enhanced natural light and many homes were featured with private outdoor areas like courtyards, rooftop patios or decks – some with remarkable city views. Residents enjoy a gym, heated swimming pool, spa, and sauna residing in one of the historic brick Gasworks buildings, beautifully restored- with modernity added.
Integrating both the landscape and existing buildings, the site lent itself to the introduction of a melange of housing styles, 25 in all, weaved into the site’s characteristics. The project had a distinct focus on community and shared spaces. A sense of community was not only catered to, but encouraged through a series of paths, gardens and communal areas. Through incorporating civic open spaces, vertical gardens, native terraces and strong pedestrian links, with a distinctly European character- residents have thrived. The precinct’s marriage of old and new has undeniably stood the test of time and remains a stalwart of pioneering master-planning and development, over twenty years on.
Awards
NZIA New Zealand Architecture Medal Finalist, Urban Design, 2010
NZIA New Zealand Architecture Award, Urban Design, 2010
NZIA Auckland Architecture Award for Urban Design, 2009
The People’s Choice Auckland City Mayoral Urban Design Awards, 2007
The People’s Choice Auckland City Mayoral Urban Design Awards, 2006
NZIA Auckland Architecture Award, 2003