stephenson & turner re-imagine primary school admin building in auckland

the auckland branch of australian firm stephenson & turner architects recently realized the administration building for the ‘whenuapai primary school’ in auckland, new zealand.

the school’s design is derived directly from its identity, which is characterized by the four colors: green, yellow, blue, and red. the aim was to formulate a welcoming entrance to the school, which elicits a sense of pride and playfulness.

form was created in response to an initial analysis of the plot, its neighboring buildings, and various mandatory regulations and restrictions. the building was relocated from its former position on-site, and the main drop-off road was eliminated. thus, the school would be immediately approachable.

the exterior is clad in cedar, which is hoped by stephenson & turner to make the administrative facility more enticing. crisp steel support lines and colored concrete strips create an rhythm throughout, and chances as light moves day by day. the roof is tilted, which connects the school’s identity to the nearby whenuapai airbase. conceived as an ‘eyebrow’ the tilt draws an outline around the structure, and frames it within view.

 

natural, crisp materials are a reflection of the building’s context

 

the aerodynamic roof peaks towards the hills beyond

 

the slender black ‘eyebrow’ emphasises the roof’s tilt and offers a play on light and shade

 

elevational view

 

a corner of the front was peeled away to create a bold and inviting front entrance