Tauranga-based First Principles Architects Limited will design the new building to house the library, Council service centre and multi-use community space.

Katikati has waited a long time in the queue for this community development while significant projects in other parts of the District have taken precedence, says Western Bay Councillor Peter Mackay.

The current Kaikati Library on Main Street.

'This facility comes at a crucial time when Katikati's population is growing rapidly and the present facilities are totally inadequate for local demand.

'Community support for this project is strong and it has been this Council's willingness to listen to the community that we have achieved a start on this much-needed community centre.

'It's not just the library and Council services centre that is needed – but we have many not-for-profit groups in our community that are sorely stressed for this kind of space for their organisations to do their work.”

Director of First Principles Architects, Graham Price, says the project will promote future commercial development in Katikati and is the conduit for linking the town's streets and sites.

'It will promote Katikati as a destination with a colourful heritage as well as being a meeting place for the local community,” says Graham.

The design will reflect the spirit of Katikati and Graham says this will be achieved by researching local heritage, listening to the views of the community and Council and understanding the nature of the retail and commercial centre.

Recognising the closeness of the Uretara Stream and the cultural significance of the town's mural identity will also be integral to the design.

'This collaborative process will enable us to capture the essence and needs of the community. This sets the cornerstone for a creating a flexible, sustainable and enduring building using appropriate materials with colour and texture,” says Graham.

Council's Customer Relations Manager Barbara Whitton says the new facility is central to Katikati's new town centre development.

Selection of First Principles Architects for the project design is based on the philosophy presented by Graham Price and his team and their visionary approach to the project.

'They have great local knowledge, a holistic approach and a commitment to keep the community up with the play as the design process progresses,” says Barbara.

'They know that close collaboration with the Katikati community is essential to a successful outcome.”

The 800sqm building on the former Dunning Block at 21 Main Street, will be an anchor for the new Katikati town centre development and will be designed for a staged build. The first stage will be the library and service centre, followed by a 400sqm multi-purpose community space once funding becomes available.

Construction is planned to start mid-2016.

First Principles specialises in commercial retail, mixed use, hospitality, education, urban design and multi-residential architecture. Graham Price has been in the profession for 30 years during which he has worked extensively in New Zealand and the Pacific Islands creating designs that reflect their location, environment and culture.

Other projects by First Principles: Mount Maunganui central commercial centre; Harcourts Head Office; urban design and master planning for Tauranga CBD and waterfront; Bethlehem Birthing centre; Aspire Health and Sports in Bethlehem; Tauranga Intermediate School' new Innovative Learning environment.