ReClaimed Library 

Shelly Bay has undergone various transformations over the past century. Changes to its use, geography and cultural connections have made it a controversial site to work with. All in all, the land of Shelly Bay is seen as very valuable real estate in the eyes of urban developers. The reclamation of land that now makes up the coastline of this bay poses an interesting idea on the thought of reclamation. Land reclamation seen as a physical action resulting in an extended shoreline. This project aims to question the idea of land reclamation in a more social and cultural context. How has the ownership of land affected its users, as well as its shape and geography? Through the implementation of Maori design principles, a design process encompassing site and function could be developed. This ultimately led to the conception and refinement of a form that is fit for its contextand its programme. This project proposes the design for a public branch library of 400sqm in size. The library will be located near the southern end of Shelly Bay and will be visible and accessible from the main road.