Pago Pago Harbour Commercial Complex, American Samoa

 

Location: Fagatogo, Pago Pago, American Samoa
NZIA Architect: Chris Pollard, Graeme Ricketts, Robert Railley in association with Joe Weilenman FAIA
Project Type: Community & Cultural
Construction: Structural steel frame, insitu concrete, local concrete block, Dimond LT7 aluminium roof. The building is designed in accordance with the International Building Code (IBC) of America and for the cyclonic pacific zone & salt laden environment.

The project was to replace a make-shift collection of farmers market shelters with a purpose built building for the sale of agricultural, fisheries and crafts produced by the local community, complete with restaurant, fast-food outlets and tenancies for small "start-up" businesses, located close to the port and bus terminal.

At the opening in 2010 Governor Togiola said

"When we finally found the money to build this project, it was no longer just for a farmers' market, but rather it was for a venue for people to come together, to visit and socialize and have access to local produce, fisheries, and small shops of goods and eateries... This approach was to bring our people back to historic Fagatogo, support our farmers and fisherman, and offer an alternative island experience to our visitors and our local people."

The shelter is open on 2 ½ sides with a lofty roof to provide natural ventilation to the general market area with air-conditioned restaurant and controlled environment for the fish market.

Materials are utilitarian and robust appropriate to the use.