Old Bank Arcade facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Old Bank Arcade |
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Old Bank Shopping Arcade
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| General information | |
| Architectural style | Edwardian Baroque/Renaissance classicism |
| Location | 239-247 Lambton Quay, Wellington, New Zealand |
| Completed | 1901 |
| Design and construction | |
| Architect | Thomas Turnbull and Son |
| Main contractor | T Carmichael |
| Official name: Bank of New Zealand Building (No 1) | |
| Designated: | 7 April 1983 |
| Reference #: | 212 |
The Old Bank Arcade is a special historic building in Wellington, New Zealand. It's also known as the Bank of New Zealand building. You can find it on Lambton Quay.
This building is very old and has a cool history. It was built a long time ago, in 1901.
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What is the Old Bank Arcade?
The Old Bank Arcade is a famous landmark in Wellington. It stands out because of its unique shape. The building wraps around a corner, like a wedge.
Who designed this building?
A talented architect named Thomas Turnbull designed the Old Bank Arcade. He worked with his son on the plans.
The building sits on a historic spot. This was once the site of something called Plimmer's Ark. This "ark" was actually an old ship that was buried and used as part of a wharf!
How was it built?
The Bank of New Zealand wanted a special building just for them. Thomas Turnbull first drew up a very fancy design. But the bank thought it was too lavish, meaning too expensive and grand.
So, Turnbull created a second, simpler design. This one was approved. A builder named T Carmichael constructed the building.
It has strong brick walls. Inside, you'll find wooden floors. The ceilings are made of pressed metal, which means metal sheets were shaped with cool patterns. There's also lots of plaster decoration.
When it opened in 1901, the main hall was described as a "handsome, lofty room." People said it was one of the biggest of its kind in the "colonies." Back then, "colonies" referred to countries like New Zealand that were part of the British Empire.
Why is it important?
The Old Bank Arcade is considered a very important building. It's officially listed as a "Category I" historic place. This means it has "special or outstanding historical or cultural heritage significance or value."
Heritage New Zealand is the group that gives buildings these special ratings. They help protect places that are important to New Zealand's past.
