Approaches to commercial architecture have to differ around the world to suit things like the geography, the climate, and the culture. Countless factors need to be considered to design buildings that can serve their primary purpose and whilst overcoming any challenges they are presented with. Fortunately this encourages creativity.

One factor that architects in the UK rarely have to consider but those in other countries may have big concerns about is seismic activity. Building in areas where earthquakes are common and reach the upper end of the Richter scale can be very challenging. It puts restrictions in place in terms of what kind of materials can be used and the layout amongst other things. More effort needs to be made to maximise safety in the event that seismic activity does occur.

Surprisingly commercial architecture designed to withstand earthquakes can still be aesthetically pleasing and effectively meet the needs of inhabitants. This was shown recently when the Hutt City Council building in Wellington, New Zealand won three architectural prizes.

The building dates back to the 1950s. In 2014 it was deemed to be earthquake prone and became the focus of large scale regeneration work. The $22 million project strengthened and reinforced the property whilst also giving it a new design to suit the needs of the inhabitants. The end results are fantastic.

A great aspect of the project is that it effectively preserves the heritage of the original building without being overly restricted by it. This allowed the introduction of modern elements and the creation of a great environment for inhabitants. The original facade of the property was saved during the work, as was a clock tower. Both were given additional protection against earthquakes.

The project is definitely noteworthy and shows what can be done in a design sense even when there are such strict restrictions in place. It is always great to see how challenges are tackled and important parts of properties are preserved.