Cromwell 2050

This speculative project re-imagines a future where Cromwell’s breathtakingly beautiful heritage precinct and cultural hub becomes the gateway for Central Otago.

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When the former township was flooded due to the creation of the Clyde Dam, it was likely difficult to imagine just how beautiful the lake by the former township would become. This speculative project wraps Old Cromwell while deepening engagement with the lake.

 

A new bridge brings visitors directly into one of the best areas of the township, further encouraging traffic to stop and contribute to the local economy. A new wharf traces the scars of the former main road, now long underwater, and the site attempts to elevate yet untapped potential. Cromwell’s lake, being man-made, offers unique possibilities without affecting any historical lake edges and therefore could be considered malleable in any future plans for the township.

 

Speculative architecture attempts to push the boundaries of what is possible and challenges existing norms by asking “What if?”. Therefore, what if Cromwell looked as different now as it did 25 years ago? Given the wider context, it quite possibly will.