“We introduced curves into the design at an early stage to use a form from nature and devised three ‘Waka’ pods, allowing for six teaching spaces,” the studio said.
With Glulam, “the obvious choice for the primary structural elements,” allowing it to “design faster to build, higher performing and less wasteful buildings,” resulting in “60% less waste going to landfill.”
“Not only was it a material in which the structural engineers had an interest and with which they had worked before, but it fits the project brief, which called for low-carbon, sustainable and energy-efficient design.”
According to the school, the timber structure, driven piles, material selection and emphasis on insulation and ventilation systems “ensures the building mirrors the environmental values the school is modelled on.”
The project was among 61 finalists and 13 awarded at the awards, with a record number of entries using hybrid construction systems, including the award-winning Scion Innovation Hub, Homeground and Costa Street developments.
“Green School was a clear winner,” according to the judging panel, “demonstrating the beauty, efficiency and sustainability of timber.”
Led by David Carradine, Senior Structural Engineer at BRANZ, the judging included Jan Stanway, Technical Director for WSP in New Zealand, Andrea Stocchero, Senior Analyst for the Te Uru Rākau – New Zealand Forest Service, and Judith Taylor, the President of the NZ Institute of Architects.
“The materials of the whole of the life cycle was considered from design process to execution to the end of its useful life, ensuring that timber was as sustainably sourced and manufactured as possible,” according to a statement provided by Award Manager Debbie Fergie.
Originally published via Woodcentral
03 Nov 2023