Waiheke Library Project
Artist impression of the new Waiheke library from Ocean View Road
Auckland Council and the Waiheke Local Board are proud to announce developed design approval for a $5.1m stand-alone library in Oneroa.
The developed design presents a purpose-built community library for Waiheke situated at 131-133 Ocean View Road – a site next to the existing Artworks complex.
The positioning of the new structure, along with additional surrounding outdoor space, transforms the existing complex into a larger, more attractive and prominent public space for Waiheke Island residents.
Site plan shows new library layout in relation with Artworks
The images shown on this project page depict a structure that is iconic, spacious and in harmony with its unique village location and Gulf Island surrounds.
Building materials will be robust and natural and feature areas of glass that make the building light, bright, and inviting.
The building has been designed to incorporate sustainable design principles and will provide the following benefits:
- Natural day lighting
- Natural air ventilation
- Passive solar heating
- High thermal insulation and double glazing for winter warmth
- Rainwater collection for water supply
With a footprint four times that of the current library and the advantages of flexible design, the new library will deliver improved quality and range of services for the people of Waiheke.
This image shows off a light, spacious and inspired library interior
Benefits of the larger space include:
- More space for recreational reading and study
- Space for hosting events – story time for children and adult book groups
- Dedicated areas for children, teenagers and adults
- Space for growing library collections
- Space to showcase local artwork
The new library design will deliver vastly improved information technology including free WiFi beyond the library building and more public computers.
The project team is working with Waiheke artist Kazu Nakagawa in developing concepts for integration into the building’s design.
The concepts are based on Kazu’s interest in its function as a library (text and words) and Waiheke’s environment (landscape and weather). You can view Kazu's preliminary sketches on the Kazu Nakagawa website.
The new library design has been firmly shaped and influenced by local residents. The Waiheke Local Board would like to thank all that gave feedback on the proposed design during December 2011.
Waiheke Local Board Chair Faye Storer says feedback at the public open days was overwhelmingly positive with most attendees in overall approval of the presented developed design.
"Waiheke residents have waited patiently for some time for a fitting replacement library, so now that we finally have a design that delivers on what we want in a new library, people are keen to see things taking shape as soon as possible," says Faye Storer.
The Waiheke Local Board is working closely with Auckland Council to deliver a high quality community asset that will become a source of pride and community right in the heart of Oneroa.
It is anticipated that construction will commence in June 2012 and be completed in July 2013.
Key stages in project timeline
- February 2012 - Waiheke Local Board approve developed design.
- May 1, 2012 - former i-SITE building to be removed from site.
- Construction work is expected to commence in late June 2012 and be completed in July 2013.
Project updates
Throughout the various phases of construction, there will be periods of disruption. This will include; building and construction related noise, dust, and limited access to and around the site.
The project team will work hard to reduce and contain negative impacts on the public, local businesses and services.
We expect Artworks neighbours to remain open and operating throughout the 12 month long period of construction.
Appropriate signage will be erected onsite to inform the public of any relevant access restrictions or construction related hazards.
If you require further information, or would like to report any issue, please phone 09 301 0101.
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