Te Hāpua: Halswell Centre is a new community facility in southwest Christchurch. Opening in November 2015, it features a 21st century library, an outdoor summer pool, a Council customer service desk, a café and a range of community meeting rooms – all in a light, diverse and intimate setting.
With so many services “under one roof”, Te Hāpua: Halswell Centre acts as a hub for the rapidly-growing Halswell community, many of whom helped shape the centre’s design and facilities by submitting their wish-list – to establish a place of social connection that builds community. The result is an accessible, welcoming and inclusive community resource for all.
In the library, this connectivity is reflected in the three Landing Points scattered throughout the space. These feature compact round worktops with an emphasis on providing a place to meet, greet and connect. Library staff had a very clear concept for these interaction stations and Paul White, Instinct Furniture’s Director of Design, was approached to carry the concept through to fruition.
The central barrels provide storage and reticulate cabling as well as a mounting for attractive signage featuring a playful pūkeko motif. Visitors to the library are warmly welcomed by staff and are invited to explore and enjoy the range of spaces, furniture and resources.
