Architectural Graduate | Moller Architects

As an Architectural Graduate at Moller Architects, I was involved in the design and development of the SkyCity Grand Hotel and Convention Centre, working alongside Gordon Moller and the wider architectural team.

My particular responsibility was the Level 7 facilities, encompassing the restaurant, swimming pool, gymnasium and external courtyard. The level presented an interesting design challenge, with its recreational facilities and 25-metre lap pool positioned above the main convention centre. The hotel brought together 300 guest rooms and a range of hospitality and leisure facilities as part of Auckland's growing entertainment precinct.

One of the most enjoyable aspects of the project was collaborating with New Zealand artist Terry Stringer on a substantial 25-metre-long plywood artwork. Integrated into the restaurant fitout, the work extended along the interior, with concealed doors carefully incorporated into the artwork itself. It was a particularly rewarding exercise in bringing art and architecture together, requiring close collaboration to ensure the practical requirements of the interior did not compromise the integrity of the artwork.

The project was recognised with an NZIA New Zealand Architecture Award in 2006. For me, it remains a memorable early career experience, particularly for the opportunity to take responsibility for a substantial part of the hotel and work directly with an established New Zealand artist.