fearon hay architects: north wharf promenade

new zealand practice fearon hay architects have completed the ‘north wharf promenade’, a revitalization project in wynyrd quarter peninsula, a section of reclaimed land in auckland’s waterfront wharves. periodic harsh weather conditions and many years of maritime industrial construction and waste made this area uninhabitable to the community. a new pedestrian drawbridge linking the site to auckland’s city center begged for a solution to make the promenade hospitable. two new additions flank the original cargo shed, surrounded by added public space: playgrounds, paths for walking, running and cycling, and concessions, along with a redeveloped relationship between the buildings and waterfront.

‘north wharf promenade’ by fearon hay architects, auckland, new zealand
image © patrick reynolds
all images courtesy of fearon hay architects

the north facing facades are subject to high winds, heavy rains, and contamination from the previous environment. large red barn-style doors and retractable windows control the permeability of the skin, quickly closing off to protect the interior spaces in bad weather while benefiting from cross ventilation and natural light during clear-cast days. fearon hay install cantilevered steel beams that extend from the core of the structure, framing the roof offering an added shielding from the elements and harvesting rainwater for reuse in bathrooms, cleaning and irrigation. basalt pavers from the wharf seep through the canopied areas and into the covered dining areas creating a sense of uniformity. centrally located solar heater provides hot water to all facets of the project, while services are located in two blocks clad with the wood planks from recycled palettes.

‘north wharf promenade’ has been shortlisted in the ‘landscaping’ category of the 2012 world architecture festival.
see the complete list of this year’s nominated projects here.

restored waterfront promenade
image © patrick reynolds

cleaned and renewed public space
image © patrick reynolds

renovated cargo shed next to the new addition
image © patrick reynolds

(left) seated within an old industrial environment
(right) cantilevering roof provides shade
images © patrick reynolds

deeply rooted and present maritime culture
image © patrick reynolds

exterior at sunset
image © patrick reynolds

eating areas under the cantilevering roof plane
image © patrick reynolds

from a dock across the wharf, two dark additions flank the original cargo shed
image © patrick reynolds