Youth Hub Christchurch wins best health project at New Zealand Commercial Project Awards

Youth Hub Christchurch won both National Category and Gold Awards in the Altus Window Systems Health Project Award category at the New Zealand Commercial Project Awards.

Main building contractor Naylor Love Canterbury entered the awards with project partners Field Studio of Architecture and Urbanism (Architect/Designer) and One Four (Project Manager).

The Judges’ comments describe the building as an extraordinary achievement towards social change.

“Stage one of the development brought together offices, consultation rooms, recreational areas, and supported housing for vulnerable youth. Designed with input from a group of young people, the space upholds cultural relevance, safety, and accessibility. From a construction standpoint, this was a highly challenging project. The team expertly navigated a dense urban site with significant geotechnical constraints, and a tight budget. The judges were particularly impressed with the collaboration demonstrated by the Youth Hub Trust, local community, stakeholders, and the design and construction teams.”

Chair of the Youth Hub Trust Dame Sue Bagshaw says she’s thrilled the Hub is getting national recognition.

“The Hub is the first of its kind in New Zealand and our hope is that similar Hubs will emerge in other key centres as a way of transforming youth mental health and wellbeing.”

Regional Director of Naylor Love Canterbury Graeme Earl says they’re exceptionally pleased with the result.

“Our team put their hearts into building an exceptional facility for the Youth Hub Trust and rangatahi in Ōtautahi Christchurch, setting a standard that was echoed by a special team of consultants, subcontractors and suppliers. We’re thrilled the exceptional care and craftsmanship that has gone into the building has been recognised.”