Business Central September 2021

104 | Stylish complex ticks all the boxes T T Sue Russell Silverwood Architects was engaged by the Wairarapa Families Anglican Trust to design a new two-level retail/apartment block on the corner of Queen and Church Streets in Masterton. ARCHITECTURE Silverwood Architects S ilverwood Architects has practices in Masterton, where it established in 1993, and Wellington, though the history of the company spans back over a century and was originally known as Raymond Lee Architects. Today it services clients throughout the Wairarapa and greater Wellington areas. Senior Graduate Architect, James Silverwood, along with Registered Architect Stephen Geuze look after the Wellington office. Silverwood Architects was engaged by the Wairarapa Families Anglican Trust to design a new two-level retail/apartment block on the corner of Queen and Church Streets in Masterton. The site had been empty for a number of years, following demolition of a former build- ing owned by the trust which did not meet new earthquake standards. The trust did its due diligence considering best use for the site, given its vision to secure long-term income for grants it gives to organi- sations supporting at risk youth and children. The idea of a commercial space downstairs on the popular corner site coupled with apart- ment living above seemed to tick all the boxes. Project Manager, for the Trust, Wayne Ostyke said the design Silverwood Architects supplied met a number of important criteria. “We wanted something that would fit in with with the surrounding architecture, however Masterton township actually has a whole mixed-bag of building styles. “We wanted a building that would stand the test of time in terms of design and with the three apartments above we wanted those spaces to be really inviting and stylish.” The Trust also saw the construction of this, yet to be named, building to bring real value to the township and inspire other property developers to undertake similar upgrades. “The idea of people living right in town is becoming more attractive, as it is in my towns and cities. The build is expected to be com- pleted by the end of the year and has gone well, despite some interruption to the sched- ule and to sourcing materials due to COVID.” A striking design detail Wayne says has real- ly made a statement are the porches leading off each apartment’s living space. “With bi-fold doors opening up its going to give occupants a real sense of space and architecturally they are really pleasing on the eye, giving the building a contemporary feel.” Wayne says he has appreciated the support from all involved in the project, from the team at Silverwood Architects, to the building con- tractor Tararua Builders. “I think people know we’re a charitable trust providing much needed funding to the com- munity and they’ve been very supportive.” James says it was important, in the design phase, to ensure the building’s design was quite simple with materials used that will ensure low maintenance in years to come. Concrete block has been used on the ground floor with the retail areas to be tiled, while upstairs colour steel is the material of choice. “It will mean no painting is required upstairs and makes an effective point of difference from the ground floor in terms of look and feel.” Meanwhile James describes the Wairarapa construction scene as booming, driven by demand from both the residential housing sector and from the commercial sector, with businesses looking to get established in the region. “Our practice is quite busy at this time,” he says. “We’re fortunate to have established repeat clients who appreciate our high professional standards and the quality of our engagement with them.” “We wanted a building that would stand the test of time in terms of design and with the three apartments above we wanted those spaces to be really inviting and stylish.” Proud to support WAIRARAPA FAMILIES ANGLICAN TRUST We are delighted to have been the architects chosen for this new building For: Architectural Design, Consent Drawings, Draughting Services & Project Management Call Darryl, James, Stephen & the Team 24 Church Street, Masterton P (06) 378-6332 M Mobile: 027-200-9832 E info@silverwoodarchitects.co.nz • Carpet • Vinyl • Floor &Wall Tiles (Waterproofing Certified) • Vinyl Planking • Laminate Planking • Timber Planking • Commercial and Residential Ph 06 378 2824 81 Dixon Street, Masterton • www.flooringdesign.co.nz Service & Excellence You Can Trust