Council projects finalists in Best Design Awards

Two Auckland Council art projects have made it to the finals of this year’s Best Design Awards. The winners will be announced in Auckland today (Friday 10 October).

POP (pop.org.nz), a temporary public art project initiated by the Waitematā Local Board, is a finalist in the small brand identity category, while the sculpture-driven identity for Studio One – Toi Tū (the refurbished iconic Artstation at 1 Ponsonby Road) is a finalist in the small brand identity and environmental graphics categories. The two projects were developed in collaboration with the multi-award winning ALT Group.

Waitematā Local Board Chair Shale Chambers says the board was very aware of central Auckland’s changing demographics, both residential and business, and the need to provide places and spaces that were flexible and versatile.

“We pride ourselves on putting our communities at the heart of our decision-making. It’s an exciting, sometimes challenging way to work. Being nominated for these awards is great acknowledgement for everyone involved in the extensive review and consultation process last year to develop the new vision for 1 Ponsonby Road,” says Mr Chambers.

“The precinct is now a stimulating collection of collaborative spaces for artists, creative businesses, individuals and community organisations to meet, make, learn, listen, practice and exhibit. The new name and identity was essential to signal the change and invite new people to explore and be part of the precinct and its spaces.

“New names can be risky. We wanted to respect the history of the land, the place and the people who have come before us. We wanted an open name and identity - one that signals we are a community precinct, a place for many purposes, many people and every possibility.

“It’s very exciting the high standards we strove for are being recognised in this way. I wish all involved the very best of luck on the night.”

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