Transforming a Vacant Site into a Vibrant Community Hub
Metal Art, a leading fabrication company based in Seaview, has been a driving force in creating custom-designed street furniture for the Lower Hutt community for an impressive 35 years. Their latest project, transforming a vacant Council site on Daly St into a thriving temporary community space, showcases their commitment to crafting unique and functional spaces that bring people together.
- Eye-catching street furniture
- Bright purple basketball hoop
- Pump track
- Painted labyrinth
- Space for food trucks
The project featured a collaboration between Metal Art and the Council’s Urban Design team, who worked together to design and create custom street furniture pieces that not only added colour and energy to the site but also reflected the company’s values of sustainability and community.
The Art of Sustainability
Metal Art’s commitment to sustainability is evident in their use of a range of materials, including recycled plastic, timber, and various metals. National Sales Manager Steve Kyle explains, “At Metal Art, we believe that our products should not only be functional but also environmentally friendly. That’s why we use a variety of materials that not only reduce waste but also create durable and long-lasting pieces.”
| Materials Used | Features |
|---|---|
| Recycled Plastic | Durable, low-maintenance, and anti-graffiti |
| Timber | Natural, warm, and inviting |
| Various Metals | Strong, durable, and resistant to corrosion |
A Community in Action
The community space at Daly St has been a hub of activity, with people of all ages enjoying the various amenities on offer. The bright purple basketball hoop, pump track, and painted labyrinth have become instant attractions, while the space for food trucks has provided a convenient and welcoming spot for locals to gather and socialize.
“I’m thrilled to see the community come together and enjoy the space. It’s a testament to the power of community-driven projects that bring people together and create a sense of belonging.” – Steve Kyle, Metal Art National Sales Manager
Other Notable Projects
Metal Art has a long history of collaborating with the Hutt City Council to create custom street furniture pieces that reflect the community’s unique character. Some of their notable projects include:
- Recycled-plastic benches in various neighbourhood parks
- Outdoor table and bench combinations atop Wainuiomata Hill
- Dual-purpose bins accommodating general waste and recycling in the CBD
- Retractable Bollards in Civic Square and near Walter Nash Centre
- The Leon van den Eijkel-designed Smiling Windmills art installations outside Avalon Park
- Custom bench seats for the War Memorial area in Riddiford Gardens
These projects showcase Metal Art’s commitment to creating functional, sustainable, and visually striking street furniture pieces that enhance the community’s quality of life.
A Lasting Legacy
As Metal Art celebrates its 35th birthday, it’s clear that their impact on the Lower Hutt community will be felt for years to come. The company’s dedication to sustainability and community has resulted in a range of projects that not only enhance the physical environment but also foster a sense of belonging and connection among residents.
