Tākina by SPA runner-up in the World-Architects ‘Building of the Year’ awards
Tākina’s Wakefield Street elevation invites the public to walk through the project to Te Papa on the other side.
Tākina, the Wellington Convention & Exhibition Centre, has been announced as runner-up in the World-Architects ‘Building of the Year’ awards.
From 40 buildings worldwide, Tākina was the only New Zealand project to make the shortlist, earning 21% of moe than 3500 votes.
Studio Pacific Architecture project lead Daryl Calder says the team is immensely proud to see Tākina recognised on the international stage in the World-Architects ‘Building of the Year’ poll. “This recognition highlights the innovative design and the collaborative effort that brought Tākina to life, creating a landmark building that reflects Wellington’s creative spirit, forward-thinking vision and the deep connection to place enriched by the cultural narratives and guidance of mana whenua.”
The practice’s project director Stephen McDougall adds that Tākina’s design is a reflection of Wellington itself – practical, innovative and deeply connected to its surroundings. “Tākina’s carefully considered sustainability features and use of materials demonstrate a commitment to creating a building that not only serves its purpose but enhances the cityscape,” says McDougall. “We are grateful for the trust that Wellington City Council and Willis Bond placed in Studio Pacific Architecture and for the collaborative effort that brought this project to life. It’s a great privilege to have led the design of this project, helping to create a versatile building capable of hosting international conferences and exhibitions, positioning Wellington as a leading destination for global events.”
Wellington mayor, Tory Whanau, says the Council is “absolutely thrilled” that Tākina has been named runner-up at the awards. “This is a significant achievement for our city and our architectural community. This iconic structure will undoubtedly serve as a landmark for our city, continuing to attract visitors and exhibitions from all around the world.”
The World-Architects ‘Building of the Year’ was awarded to Sanjay Puri Architects’ Nokha Village Community Centre Community Center in India.
The Building of the Year poll on World-Architects was open for the month of January, asking visitors to select their favorite building from the 40 Buildings of the Week featured in 2024. The Nokha Village Community Centre tallied approximately 23% of the roughly 3,500 votes cast. The three runners-up are: Tākina, Sidera | CIA Conad Headquarters in Forli, Italy, by tissellistudioarchitetti and Initiative Rising Star - School Buildings for Hopley, Zimbabwe by Engineers Without Borders Germany.
Read our review of Tākina by Guy Marriage published in the July 2023 issue of Architecture NZ magazine here.
