10 | Union Square Development Karen Phelps Changing the face of Hamilton CBD “Union Square will bring people into the CBD and have positive knock-on effects, initially during the construction process with a large number of workers in the CBD then in terms of drawing the public there, creating vibrancy and activity.” to page 12 DEVELOPMENT Union Square is changing the face of central Hamilton and is set to become an important business hub for the Waikato region. Designed by Chow:Hill and constructed by Fosters, Union Square comprises over 23,000sqm of premium office space within five buildings. Covering half a city block, Union Square will have positive implications for the central city, says Chow:Hill board chair and director Brian Squair. “A project like this is always a good challenge as we have to consider it holistically in terms of surrounding buildings, vehicle movements and pedestrian connections, green spaces, space efficiency and visual connectivity to nearby spaces,” he explains. Once completed the precinct will also feature a number of retail outlets and a 350-space onsite car park. The project saw Chow:Hill work closely with the client in order to not only maximise opportunities but also to connect the development with the wider central city in a very collaborative process. “Communication and asking questions is key. We spend a lot of time on these early discussions to establish the vision. “We then unpack a strategy to get there, moving back and forth between strategy and vision as the process unfolds to make sure they align. We embark on a journey with our clients. It’s a relational not a transactional process,” explains Brian. He says that Chow:Hill is adept at adapting its process to suit the client’s interests and risk profile rather than forcing a set model: “We are not just creative with design but also process,” he says. Brian says that for every project Chow:Hill works on, they want their designs to function well, enhance spaces, encapsulate unique character and deliver experiences. “We want our designs to succeed,” he says. “With regards to Union Square we see it will bring people into the CBD and have positive knock-on effects, initially during the construction process with a large number of workers in the CBD then in terms of drawing the public there, creating vibrancy and activity.” Union Square is helping businesses to strengthen their brands due to its high profile location. The future development of the south end of town, including the new Waikato Regional Theatre, combined with the unique people-focused experience that Fosters is creating makes Union Square an attractive proposition for many businesses. PROUD TO BE PART OF DELIVERING TRANSFORMATIONAL LOCAL CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS
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