Tattoo tipped for instant impact

Tattoo will feature louvres across its surface which will display a unified image when closed. Photo / Supplied

The building will be responsive to light, the time of day and privacy needs.Andrew Barclay Tattoo will feature louvres across its surface which will display a unified image when closed.

The design of a seven storey building named Tattoo, planned for completion in 2012, is the newest release for the Rhubarb Lane development on the corner of Sale and Wellesley Streets near Victoria Park.

"Walking down Rhubarb Lane, the urban village planned for the Victoria Quarter of Auckland, visitors will be immediately faced with the stunning and unusual facade of 'Tattoo', crafted by the Warren and Mahoney architectural team," says Tim Willing, director of sales and marketing for developer Multiplex Living, a wholly owned subsidiary of Brookfield Asset Management.

Willing says the new building will contain 21 loft-style spaces in a variety of configurations suitable for commercial or residential use or a combination of both.

A feature will be its striking tattoo graphic imprinted on the louvres of the facade which will pay tribute to its New Zealand heritage inspiration.

"The building will be responsive to light, the time of day and privacy needs, and when the building's louvres are closed, it will create one unified, literal tattoo idea," says Andrew Barclay, principal architect and executive director of Warren and Mahoney. "However, the owners will be able to open the louvres up as they choose, which is great because the facade will be changing day to day."

Willing says the market response has been very positive with the project's first release, No 1 Rhubarb Lane, meeting pre-sales requirements in less than a month.

Willing says the carefully considered designs of the urban village have proved to be an attraction for buyers.

"Aucklanders know the strength of the area. They see Rhubarb Lane as the centre of a new neighbourhood in the making and many want to be a part of it."

"Rhubarb Lane will have a cobblestone laneway at its heart with an eclectic mix of cafes, restaurants, providores, fromagerie and a village park with a moonlight cinema," Willing said.