The Cloud, Queen's Wharf
Wood: Meranti/Lauan (Shorea spp.) — Creator: Jasmax Limited Architects
One of the visual highlights of the 2011 Rugby World Cup held in Auckland, New Zealand was a unique waterfront structure called the Cloud. Completed in July 2011 and named for its curvy, billowy, ephemeral form, the Cloud is made of wood, steel, glass and opaque PVC. The structure comes alive at night with dramatic lighting and colorful graphics.
"This is an exciting design," says Harry Rowntree, senior interior designer of Jasmax Ltd. The architects were able to achieve a variety of light levels and different atmospheres within the space.
The Cloud's plywood panels are designed for durability and aesthetics. "The meranti plywood is used as cladding panels and is entirely non-structural," says Rowntree. "There are eight large interior/exterior half moon arches which line the steel frame structure. Each arch is made from 15 full sheets of 30mm meranti plywood and then sprayed with clear gloss Caprithane."
Meranti plywood was an excellent choice for this application because it is lightweight, durable, water resistant and smooth, plus it holds up well in extreme environments.
The Cloud was part of a $7.9 million major redevelopment project to transform and revitalize the Auckland waterfront and to encourage visitors and residents to visit, dine, shop and work in the area. It was also designated as the official rugby fan zone. Initially, plans called for the Cloud to be relocated and repurposed after the 2011 Rugby World Cup. However due to its popularity as a destination for both tourists and Auckland locals, it has become the centerpiece for the city and remains a star attraction at the harbor.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Cloud at Queen's Wharf in Auckland?+
The Cloud is a unique waterfront structure built for the 2011 Rugby World Cup in Auckland, New Zealand. Completed in July 2011, it is named for its curvy, billowy, ephemeral form and is made of wood, steel, glass and opaque PVC.
What type of plywood was used for the Cloud's cladding?+
Meranti plywood was used as cladding panels on the Cloud. It is entirely non-structural and was chosen because it is lightweight, durable, water resistant, smooth, and holds up well in extreme environments.
How were the Cloud's interior arches constructed?+
The Cloud has eight large interior/exterior half moon arches that line the steel frame structure. Each arch is made from 15 full sheets of 30mm meranti plywood and then sprayed with clear gloss Caprithane.
Who designed the Cloud in Auckland?+
The Cloud was designed by Jasmax Ltd. Harry Rowntree served as senior interior designer on the project.
Why was the Cloud not relocated after the 2011 Rugby World Cup?+
Although initial plans called for the Cloud to be relocated and repurposed after the 2011 Rugby World Cup, its popularity as a destination for both tourists and Auckland locals led to it remaining in place. It has become the centerpiece for the city and a star attraction at the harbor.
What was the purpose of the Auckland waterfront redevelopment project?+
The Cloud was part of a $7.9 million major redevelopment project to transform and revitalize the Auckland waterfront. The goal was to encourage visitors and residents to visit, dine, shop and work in the area, and it was also designated as the official rugby fan zone.