Parkhaven, with its variety of apartment types to cater for a diversity of occupants, is an excellent example of how to bring density into Hamilton’s city centre while recognising New Zealanders’ fondness for outdoor living space. The  balconies recessed into the building envelope provide functional shelter and  privacy between neighbouring apartments and compositionally allow the building to maintain a clean form. The large and uninterrupted areas of glazing provide magnificent views over the city; infact, Hamilton’s CBD might never look so good as from here.

Te Kahui Whaihanga NZ Institute of Architects

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