Catherine Plaza, Henderson
Image credit: WE-EF
OVERVIEW
Catherine Plaza is the first completed project delivered as part of Auckland Council’s wider programme to upgrade public spaces across Henderson. Located at the entrance to the shopping mall, the plaza plays an important role in shaping first impressions of the area.
MHL supplied architectural luminaires from WE-EF suited to the demands of a public realm environment, working collaboratively with Bespoke Landscape Architects on the lighting design and scheme.
CLIENT
Auckland Council
TEAM
Bespoke Landscape Architects
PRODUCT
WE-EF DAS
WE-EF RMC
Image credit: WE-EF
THE BRIEF
Prior to the upgrade, the space was not perceived as safe, with high levels of crime contributing to low activation and limited use. A key objective of the project was to improve safety through lighting, while also beautifying the plaza and establishing a more welcoming and legible entrance to the mall.
The lighting concept draws inspiration from the experience of walking through a forest environment, with curved and circular forms integrated naturally with the landscape elements to reinforce the intended spatial character.
THE APPROACH
The design concept is expressed through the organic forms of the seating and paving, which reference the textures and patterns of Kauri tree bark. This informed the lighting approach, favouring curved and circular luminaire forms that could sit naturally within the landscape.
WE-EF DAS luminaires were installed on catenary systems to provide pedestrian-scale illumination and guide movement through the plaza. WE-EF RMC luminaires were mounted on poles to support wider area lighting and improve overall visibility. A warm white 3000K colour temperature was selected throughout to create a comfortable and welcoming nighttime environment.
Image credit: WE-EF
Image credit: WE-EF
CHALLENGES
As a renewal project, Catherine Plaza presented several challenges during construction. The extensive use of curved geometry increased coordination complexity, while existing buildings and unknown underground services required the design and installation to remain flexible.
All lighting poles were relocated from their original design positions to avoid clashes with underground services, resulting in onsite adjustments while maintaining the intent of the lighting scheme. Close collaboration between the project team was essential to resolve these constraints successfully.
Image credit: WE-EF
Image credit: WE-EF
RESULTS
The completed project has been very well received, with Auckland Council expressing strong satisfaction with the outcome.
As the first project delivered under the Henderson public space upgrade programme, Catherine Plaza now serves as a reference for future developments, demonstrating how considered lighting can support safety, enhance amenity, and positively transform a civic environment.
PRODUCTS
A tailored mix of robust, architectural-grade luminaires was supplied to meet both aesthetic and functional requirements. Products were selected for their optical performance, low glare, and ability to blend into the surrounding materials and streetscape design.
WE-EF DAS
Catenary-mounted pedestrian-scale illumination.
WE-EF RMC
Pole-mounted area lighting