INSPIRING SPACES
A local architectural firm, Three Sixty Architects, has gained recognition for designing an iconic location – The Welder on Welles Street. The mixed-use space, which opened its doors late last year, is home to a yoga studio and eateries through to locally made, artisan gifts and homewares.
The firm was given the brief to repurpose the individual buildings to form a series of mixed-use tenancies and public spaces, transforming them into a one-stop-shop for health and wellbeing.
Thanks to the success of this project, the firm won a Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects (NZIA) Local Architecture award (Canterbury) for the commercial space category.
“Winning an award for this type of development in this category signifies that existing spaces, although initially awkward, can be utilised in a contemporary way to fit the needs of an emerging city,” Nick Wortelboer from Three Sixty Architects says.
The team worked alongside Box 112, known for its appreciation of the importance of working with existing buildings left in the city; together creating the unique look and feel of The Welder.
Each tenancy has its individual identity, yet each one fits seamlessly into the overall design rationale.
“The open layout has sought to create a language that unifies them with signage, planting, and ingenuity, contributing to the laneway concept.”
When questioned as to what aspects of design stood out the most once the building was completed, the central space in the atrium and the material aesthetic of the project came to Nick’s mind. The atrium is an inviting and light-filled space and the materiality of the development is full of genuine, old-world charisma and tactile materials.
Three Sixty Architects’ approach to working with clients is people focused.
“Architecture must meet the needs of the people who commission and use it. Our depth of experience has taught us the value of genuine engagement. We work closely with each client to understand their particular needs, before devising imaginative solutions that expand on possibilities while meeting constraints.”