Rebuilding Christchurch rebuilding history : an architectural research project that examines how a theatre proposal may instigate an architectural dialogue with/or about the heritage of Christchurch in a post-earthquake context

Abstract

This research project Rebuilding Christchurch – Rebuilding History, addresses the historical pieces of architecture that have survived the devastation of the Christchurch earthquake. What happens to these remaining fragments of history is one that will affect the architectural landscape in Christchurch as we see it now. The earthquake has presented Christchurch with a unique opportunity to build a central city with new and exciting buildings for the residents of Christchurch to enjoy. But what is to become of the surviving fragments of Christchurch’s architectural history? These are the buildings which helped to form the identity of the city; they are what people remember from the past. This project tries to find the balance between responding to the past, while looking towards the current needs of the city to generate architecture that is reflective of the city and its people. Proposal: To use the facades of the former Excelsior Hotel (Manchester) and the Victoria Black (High Street) for a new theatre complex.