The QUBA development on the eastern fringes of the city has left us all with a sour taste in our mouths, not so much because of the architecture, but because the public spaces and lane-ways are abysmal. The initial renders promised a Melbourne style landscape but instead we were left with an anaemic, drafty and soulless rabbit run. Harbour 5 Ltd is now proposing to erect a new, eight-level commercial building at 8 Mahuhu Crescent (on the corner of Beach Road and Mahuhu Crescent). The design looks far more interesting, breaking free from the box with straight sides and alternating piercings - the angles and curves are refreshing. It is a shame that we don't have any renders in colour but all good things come to those who wait. We hope that the public areas will receive more attention and create a vibrant area for those who live, work and migrate through the area.
Fingers crossed. This area is a great place to live - but we desperately need some good architecture.
ReplyDeleteIt is a great area to live and I somehow think that the architecture is better than in most areas of Auckland - such as the upper Hobson Street area. What disappoints me most about theQUBA precinct is the public spaces - I have heard via the grapevine that some tenants are taking the developer to court for "false advertising" ... the renders of the public area differ vastly to what was developed. Now is their opportunity to fix it and do the the right thing.
ReplyDeleteHehe. Yeah, I guess you're right about the architecture being betting than most areas. Hobson St is a great example of what should never have happened. Very interesting what you say about tenants taking the developer to court. It's great having retail/hospitality with residential, but I have to admit I've spent very little time there because because it just doesn't feel very welcoming. I'd much rather walk another couple of hundred metres toward town & have my coffee or glass of wine there.
ReplyDeletePS. Thanks for your blog - it's great to know what's going on in our wee town.
LOL ... we need to drive our City Councillors down Hobson Street every day so that they may be reminded of how inept they are/were - let's never forget and let's never make the same mistakes again ;)
ReplyDeleteThe QUBA area is not very welcoming at all, it is an abomination which makes me question whether the panel for better urban design actually exists at the AKL city council ? I have yet to see proof thereof.
You are most welcome and thanks for all of your comments, it is much appreciated. Have a great weekend.