DIOCESAN SCHOOL FOR GIRLS SCHOOL POOL: AWARD-WINNING WITH SIGNIFICANT STRUCTURAL INNOVATIONS
We were structural engineers on the $8m school pool building – featuring a main pool, junior pool and two-storey sports complex.
This project involved some significant New Zealand ‘firsts’. The centre has the first variable-depth pool – a European innovation in which the pool floor can be raised or lowered to suit the activity. It’s also the first use of post-tensioned timber roof beams to address a demanding 26 metre span.
In humid and corrosive environments even stainless steel trusses lack the required longevity. Concrete beams would mean weight issues and an ‘industrial feel’ – rather than the warmth and ambience sought. Our extensive experience in post-tensioned concrete beams translated well to the design and construction of innovative timber beams. The resultant beams surpassed even timber glulam construction in strength and weight characteristics.
Benefits of having us on the team:
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This is an example of us pushing the boundaries. We conducted project specific research to validate the idea of post-tensioned timber roof beams, using research projects from the University of Canterbury and further developing these.
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The engineering integrates seamlessly with the architecture and the building is performing well.
Winner – Commercial Engineering Excellence Award, NZ Wood Timber Design Awards, 2009
Auckland Architecture Award for Public Architecture, 2010.