New Zealand Commercial Design Trends Series NZ Commercial Design Trends Vol. 33/04C | Page 18

Project
The Crossing
Location:
Christchurch
Architect:
Wilson and Hill Architects
Developer
Carter Group
RETAIL HUB WITH HEART
An entire inner-city block has been transformed into a new retail mecca for
Christchurch – however, the massive development is on a very human scale
Christchurch is fundamentally changing. The
seismic events that tragically raised much of the
city also cleared the way for a vibrant new heart.
Many new buildings going up are as large as they
are structurally and architecturally impressive, but
The Crossing – developed by Carter Group and
designed by Wilson and Hill Architects – creates
an intimate kind of retail experience, with an air of
discovery and variety at every turn.
Carter Group’s Philip Carter, the driver behind
the substantial, forward-looking development, says
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The Crossing is a vibrant, world-class retail and
office hub that offers a drawcard for locals and
visitors alike.
“There’s always risk with a project of this mag-
nitude, but The Crossing is Carter Group’s way of
showing leadership and confidence in the rebuild of
the Christchurch CBD,” says Carter.
“Together with other dynamic developments,
The Crossing gives the inner city a new heart and
pumps life back into the retail precinct as a whole.”
With about 44,000m 2 of space, the development is
Below:A 1935 building has been
restored and reinforced and
forms an historic cornerstone
for The Crossing in central
Christchurch. The existing
airbridge will connect to Ballantynes.
Facing page: High-profile brand
H&M literally has a high-profile
facade. The dramatic composite
elements attract attention
without putting a heavy load on
the steel-frame corner building.