The new Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki is an extensive public project that includes the restoration and adaption of heritage buildings; a new building extension which more than doubles the public exhibition areas; extensive basement storage and support areas; and the redesign of adjacent areas of Albert Park.

The new building is characterised by a series of fine ‘tree-like’ canopies that define and cover the entry forecourt, atrium and gallery areas. These light, profiled forms are inspired by the adjacent canopy of pohutukawa trees and ‘hover’ over the stone walls and terraces that reinterpret the natural topography of the site. The ceilings of the canopies are assembled from carefully selected Kauri, profiled into precise geometric patterns and supported on slender and tapering shafts. These emblematic forms give the Gallery with a unique identity that is inspired by the natural landscape of the site.

Between the stepped stone podium and hovering canopies, an openness and transparency is created to allow views through, into and out of the Gallery circulation and display spaces into the green landscape of Albert Park. In this way the Gallery opens to the park and adjoining public spaces in an inviting and engaging gesture of welcome.

Photo credits: John Gollings, Patrick Reynolds