Historical elements played an important part in the redesign of Te Manawa o te Kura (the Heart of the School) – the main block of Samuel Marsden Collegiate School in Wellington. However, the new building designed by Athfield Architects showcases more modern technologies.

The original 1930s’ main block of the school was deemed unsound following the Canterbury earthquakes, so it was demolished and rebuilt with modern facilities and innovative learning spaces.

The new design retains the original 1927 brick entrance crowned with a copper parapet, as well as the original stairs, but it looks to the new with a primary structure constructed in LVL, and a façade clad in polycarbonate.

This provides the contemporary, lightweight and semi-translucent quality desired by the client, accentuated by LED lighting that boldly changes colour from white to red to blue to green. Athfield Architects’ Jeremy Perrott described it as “a glowing lantern that heralds an exciting future and celebrates the many evening functions held at Marsden School”.

Important pedestrian links between the north and south connections within the campus have been reinstated, emphasised by the centre of the design – a new building with a rising pitched roof.

Internally, the design maximises the use of natural light and ventilation, with energy use kept to a minimum as a result of substantial insulation. An extensive green vista offers a peaceful space for students at the school to enjoy.