Commercial

The Clocktower Entrance

Location

Auckland

Client

University of Auckland

Date

2024

The former Arts Building, now known as the Clocktower stands as a distinctive and beloved Auckland landmark. Since its design and construction in 1923 by Roy Alstan Lippincott and his partner Edward Billson, the Clocktower has remained the heart of the university campus. Salmond Reed was tasked with designing a new accessible entrance.

Alterations
Education
Universities
Materials
Specialist materials
Stonework

Our design response was to preserve the original steps while integrating contemporary services and accessibility. An accessible lift is supported by Oamaru stone piers & carefully occupies the entrance’s right side. The new stairs and landing are strategically layered atop the original steps to ensure the concealment of services while avoiding any demolition of heritage fabric.

While a contemporary intervention, every aspect of the project pays homage to the Clocktower’s storied past – a small section of the original steps remains uncovered. The materials of our intervention are sourced from the same Oamaru quarry as the original, and the bespoke handrail is adorned with the motif featured within the building’s interior. 

More projects

The house at no. 7 Symonds Street in Onehunga was built c.1860 and is situated on a large 3176m² property in the company of a number of large scheduled trees.

This English Gothic Revival style church, constructed of Basalt stone with Oamaru stone decorative detailing was built in 1894 and stands tall on a hill in the centre of Auckland. It is the longest established church in the city. The original architect’s ambitious design was never fully realised due to lack of funds.

In March 2023, the Winter Gardens were fully re-opened to the public following a complex two-year project to seismically upgrade and undertake major repairs and improvements to the glasshouses and wider site. The repairs and strengthening works were complex and required a number of changes to the structures, which have been carried out with the utmost care and attention to detail to ensure that the heritage values of the place have been protected and enhanced. This icon site has been conserved for the future. This has been accomplished on time and within the original estimates on behalf of Auckland Council.

Contact our experienced team to discuss your project

Address

Level 4, Landmark House
187 Queen Street
Auckland CBD 1010

Mailing
PO Box 105929, Auckland City 1143