The architectural firm Schmidt Hammer Lassen was founded in Denmark in 1986 by architects Morten Schimdt, Bjarne Hammer and John F. Lassen, and is recognized as one of Scandinavia’s most influential and award-winning architects. Working from their studios in Copenhagen, Aarhus and Shanghai, their services are based on values ​​such as well-being, aesthetics, light, and sustainability extend internationally. In 2018, they join the architectural firm Perkins + Will.

The architectural firm has exported its talent to Christchurch, the largest city on New Zealand South island, where Tūranga, a library in the city-centered was designed. Between 2010 and 2011, Christchurch, a city renowned for its investment in art and culture, was devastated by four major earthquakes that destroyed a large part of the infrastructure, hence the need for redevelopment. Symbol of renewal and hope, this new building is able to withstand potential new earthquakes, thanks to a structure that allows it to swing and then return to its original position. Therefore, this project is part of both the city redevelopment but also soul restoration.