Re-discovering North Head: A Narrative Exploration of Architecture + Archaeology

Abstract

Historic sites across New Zealand hold onto the memory of events that once were. Remnant archaeology is imprinted on the landscape but the story and relevance is been lost over time.

This thesis examines the culture, history and architecture archaeology of North Head. It proposes an architecture that reinterprets the traditional ‘museum’ ideologies by applying experiential spaces that introduce a renewed interest and curiosity in North Head’s history. The existing structures, objects, activities and events inform the design, giving more insight to the site history and bringing its story back into the public eye.

Traditional archaeology museums are designed around a collection – they educate the public about historic events by exhibiting artifacts. Often these museums, large static structures, make no significant architectural statement connecting the building form with the artifacts that are on display.

The museum proposed in this thesis is not centered on housing a collection or specific artifacts. Instead it focuses on defining architecture of experience that promotes discussion, interpretation and encourages new understandings.

The museum is located at North Head a volcanic headland at the entrance of the Waitamata harbour. It’s distinct location and extensive Auckland harbour views have distinguished it as a significant landmark in Auckland.

This project introduces five architectural pavilions into North Head’s existing landscape; it re-inhabits and reoccupies the existing military defence structures on site. These pavilions will be used as tools to communicate experiences that do not mimic but, are rather, remnants of our history.

These installations re-interpret significant site-specific themes: coastal defence, Maori history, volcanic topography and maritime presence.

The insertion of new architectural structures and forms that integrate with the existing archaeology will reinvigorate North Head by offering an experiential architecture that reflects a more meaningful interpretation and connection with the past.