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James Cook High School 

Library Refurbishment

The library building at JCHS, built some 50 years ago, was in need of a complete rejuvenation. A solution was needed that not only could stand the test of time from a durability point of view, but also highlight the library as a centrepiece for the school.

The aim was to bring something to the building that could not only withstand the rigours of everyday school life but would also highlight the school’s multicultural demographic and strong links with New Zealand history and traditions.

Detailing in the panel gaps and the number of varied angles of the joints used references to ships rigging used by Polynesian explorers and the man for whom the school is named, Captain James Cook.  

Client

JCHS

Year

2010

Location

Manurewa, Auckland

type

Education Facility

architect

John Durkin

Type

Renovation and Refurbishment

The use of colour and pattern gives the building personality, embracing the school's unique cultural mix.

The colour palette mixing dark blue, mineral blue and cobalt blue has created a stunning façade full of colour and vibrancy. It hints to Polynesian influences at the school when viewed as a whole.

Overall, the façade is reminiscent of a tattoo, or a weaving, and the use of the vibrant colour palette sets the library apart from the rest of the school. It’s a real showpiece, and a centre of learning for the school and the local community.

The building has not been ‘tagged’ which indicates the students have been able to identify with it.  We think this is because the use of colour and pattern gives the building personality and represents the way the school is moving forward and embracing its unique cultural mix.