Kiwi lifeguard tower wins architecture award

A Christchurch architect has won an award for the unique design of a lifeguard tower at a beach he patrolled as a teenager.

Wilson & Hill Architects were co-winners in the small project category for The Chair, a new lifeguard tower at Woodend Beach. The Chair, inspired by a folding beach chair, was one of 12 regional projects recognised at the recent 2011 Canterbury Architecture Awards.

Surf Life Saving New Zealand Southern Region Programmes and Services Manager Dougal Holmes, said the chair was designed by David Hill of Wilson & Hill who had patrolled the beach as a surf lifesaver in the 1980s.

Holmes explained that The Chair had replaced the "very tragic" lifeguard tower which was more than 30 years old, stating "it's an amazing piece of architecture.

"All the locals I've spoken to think it's great."

The Chair, funded by a grant of about $30,000 from the Waimakariri District Council, was constructed last year.

Awards jury convener Stephen Crooks said the project was a "simple but brilliant concept, superbly executed.

"You can't help smiling when you see this little building sitting among the windswept dunes."

For more information go to wwww.wilsonandhill.co.nz/

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