Invercargill Central receives 2024 Te Kāhui Whaihanga NZ Institute of Architects Southern Region award for Commercial Architecture

20.05.24 All media

Invercargill Central has been shortlisted for the 2024 Te Kāhui Whaihanga NZ Institute of Architects Southern Region awards.

Shortlisted in the Commercial Architecture category, Invercargill Central is an ambitious city centre block redevelopment on the South Island of New Zealand.

Designed by Buchan, the expansive 15,137 sqm site has been transformed into a cohesive, masterplanned precinct with curated retail, hospitality, entertainment and commercial zones, connected by new and existing pedestrian links.

The scale and rhythm of the new buildings sit respectfully alongside retained heritage facades, to merge old and new seamlessly within the existing city fabric. The result is a mix of richly layered architectural forms and materials that create interesting and engaging streetscapes.

Buchan project lead, Daren Alderson, says Invercargill Central has reimagined the city centre as a dynamic, walkable community hub and has restored a sense of civic pride. “Our priority was to create a great experience for the community and bring people back to the city, day and night, whilst respecting the history and integrity of the wider neighbourhood.”

View more about this project here.

Photography by Dennis Radermacher

“A mammoth undertaking for Invercargill, this development deserves recognition for its contribution to the urban regeneration of an entire city block. Incorporating a multitude of new buildings, the scheme also preserves three prominent heritage buildings. Lighting design successfully showcases the retained heritage façades, with a lively installation to the southern exterior. Glass canopies on heritage façades are delicate and enable views of the beautiful articulation above the street. The architects have laid the foundation for a vibrant city centre.” – Jury Citation