CHAPEL STUDIOS: HELPING RESOLVE THE HOUSING CRISIS BY CREATING AFFORDABLE ACCOMODATION
This development in Flat Bush, Auckland, comprises five 3-storey blocks containing a total of 75 affordable, furnished studio apartments. We were engaged as the structural engineer on this important project, which is designed to efficiently increase Auckland’s housing stock.
Benefits of having us on the team:
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In order to ensure design and construction efficiency we used repetitive design. Three storey buildings are the sweet spot for social housing as lifts aren’t required and less stairs are needed, which means they can be built more cost-effectively.
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Our design used regular residential construction materials and systems that New Zealand
builders are familiar with, are readily available, and are quick to construct.
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Wherever possible we designed structural solutions that can be prefabricated offsite to
ensure greater efficiency, quicker construction and improved health and safety.
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Timber presents detailing challenges, particularly in terms of fire and connections. This required careful engineering and design coordination. Our design is sympathetic to structural loads, aesthetics and buildability.