Te Pātaka Kōrero o Te Hau Kapua – Devonport Library

Location

Devonport, Auckland

Architect

Athfield Architects

Te Pātaka Kōrero o Te Hau Kapua – Devonport Library by Athfield Architects is a project I self-commissioned after its recent renovation. Having grown up in Devonport and spent time here over the years, I was keen to revisit and document the space in its new form.

The design strikes a careful balance between community function and architectural detail - with its timber cladding, deep overhangs, and generous glazing creating a sense of openness and welcome. Located right in the heart of the village, the library sits comfortably among pōhutukawa and palms, catching the light beautifully throughout the day.

Photographing it allowed me to explore the building both as a piece of architecture and as a civic hub — kids walking home from school, visitors relaxing in the shade outside, and glimpses of movement behind the glass all added to the story.

A couple of years after photographing the space, I exhibited Retrospection here as part of the Auckland Festival of Photography in 2021 – making this shoot feel like a fitting way to reconnect with a familiar local landmark.