Woods Bagot proposes a mixed-use tower to transform Auckland, New Zealand’s skyline

As one of five competing designs in a competition organized by Melbourne-based ICD Property, the tower was imagined as a formation rising from Auckland’s natural environment and alludes to its geology, as well as the local flora and fauna. As such, the tower could not exist anywhere else.

“The building sits gracefully within the skyline’s silhouette and the internal experience has been carefully curated to suit the city’s needs. Sightlines to culturally significant landmarks, the height of the streetscape, pedestrian connectivity to key destinations and Auckland’s weather have all been carefully considered in order to create a structure that could only sit within this particular skyline” said Woods Bagot Design Principal Peter Miglis. The proposed project will also include a publicly accessible roof plaza—complete with a hotel lobby as well as a rooftop cinema, bar, and lounge.

Taking both the city and street scale into consideration, the tower will play a role in defining the city’s skyline and engage the ground plane. From the street level, visitors will find a café, wine store, and a marketplace selling local products with 24/7 access. Due to the unpredictable weather conditions, the public plaza space is predominantly enclosed but can be adjusted to achieve a closer connection to the outdoors. The mezzanine, which can be accessed from a grand spiral staircase, will feature a martini bar, restaurant, and gallery. Hotel guests and residents can enjoy a pool, spa, and health bar.

According to Woods Bagot Associate Principal Andrew Walter, Federal Street will become the focal point in the center of Auckland’s central business district that lead to the nearby ports.

“The new building encourages movement through and into the site as a more civic gesture – exploring the potential as a central part of what could become a green laneway that is pedestrian, and bike-focused,” Walter said.

So that locals can experience the many views of Auckland, different amenities were spread throughout the tower with different views, including iconic landmarks such as Rangitoto Island.

“A focus of the design was to maximize views out, from all levels of the building, for all building occupants. Our proposal considers the public experience of Auckland from the street scale to the skyline, imagining the building as a device that connects back to its setting from wherever it is experienced,” Miglis said.

Learn more about the project by watching the video below.