Black River Reclamation is a proposed intervention aimed at re-establishing whenua (land) and creating a student performance space within the University of Auckland campus. By removing the Learning Quarter segment of Symonds Street and excavating to the basement level of the campus buildings, the project envisions a transformative landscape that cuts into the earth, culminating in a native New Zealand wetland.
At the heart of the project are two double-height pedestrian bridges that span the length of the landscape. These bridges serve a dual purpose: they seamlessly integrate with the existing building entrances, while also providing communal spaces for students. These spaces offer dynamic, welcoming areas where students can circulate, rest, interact, and engage in both spontaneous and organized performances, fostering a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere within the university.
The design further incorporates interactive seating throughout the corridor, empowering students to rearrange the space at will. This fosters a sense of ownership and encourages performativity, transforming the structure into a living, evolving space for artistic engagement and interaction.
Over the course of a 24-hour cycle, the proposed design captures the ebb and flow of pedestrian activity, highlighting moments of heightened interaction—whether students are gathering in communal areas, commuting to classes, or crossing paths to the student bar. The space offers opportunities for people-watching, relaxation, protest participation, and even interaction with the open-air, multi-story structure itself, allowing students to climb and explore.
The project embraces the concept of "the black river running," symbolizing the transition from the industrial black tarmac of the road to the natural environment. This shift aims to strengthen the connection between nature, students, and the built environment. It envisions a campus that celebrates the harmonious integration of architecture, nature, and the student-pedestrian experience.
Beyond its aesthetic and social contributions, Black River Reclamation also offers numerous environmental benefits. The project will help mitigate air pollution and urban heat island effects, while providing a new habitat for native wildlife. The wetland will also play a crucial role in managing stormwater, temporarily storing runoff and releasing it slowly over time to reduce flood risks.