The architects should buy Gordon Wilson Flats

Stuff reports:

Wellington architects have put forward plans for restoring and reusing a block of “ugly” and “dangerous” flats set to be demolished.

Victoria University of Wellington confirmed this week it will demolish the earthquake-prone flats near its Kelburn campus, citing serious safety concerns and the high cost of restoration. …

The Architectural Centre said it was focused on finding a practical solution based on the building’s current condition, and had put designs to the university to show how it could be renewed to avoid demolition. …

“It would use over 90% less carbon than demolition and rebuild, and would include remediation of the building to perform with greater energy efficiency, both a win for the environment.”

The plan showed a mix of high-quality apartments, alongside shared study rooms, communal lounges, social spaces and a rooftop terrace.

“We have demonstrated it is viable to renew the building to achieve Victoria University of Wellington’s goals,” Tse said.

“It can be both flexible for different uses and attractive to modern tastes and trends in the student and non-student markets, here and internationally. Renewal would also honour the social ideals of the original building design. And cost up to 35% less than an equivalent new build.”

This seems like a great plan. I think the architects should approach a bank to lend them money, buy the flats off VUW, and then have their design implemented. That would be a win-win.

If they are really confident in their designs, that should be a no-brainer.

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