University of Auckland Student Amenities Complex - Education
Client: University of Auckland
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The Student Commons comprises two distinct wings, linked by a glazed central atrium, which forms a key circulation space within the university campus. The contrasting forms of the two wings – one a transparent glass box, the other effectively an enclosed, metal tube – reflect the different functions of the building.
The Information Commons is all about providing a light, open working environment for students. This is reinforced by the form of the glass box, which is screened with mesh. The more enclosed Student Commons wing reflects the building’s more private, consultative function.
The project required Mainzeal and its team of subcontractors to work with almost 2000 different drawings. These ranged from architectural and structural
plans to shop drawings for services, cladding and joinery.
Project Data:
Location:
Auckland
Client:
University of Auckland
Constructing a building of this size and calibre on a site with some of the largest pedestrian flows in Auckland also meant safety was a primary concern. Consequently, Mainzeal put into place a rigorous safety programme.
The building is founded on a slab comprising more than 2000m3 of reinforced concrete – 80 truck loads were required to carry out each of the large concrete pours. To minimise disruption, these were done between 4am and 10am.
Approximately 420 tonnes of structural steel are included in the buildings, which feature precast double T floors with in situ reinforced concrete toppings. A specially developed perforated metal ceiling panel system allowed services concealment and the exposure of the precast floor ribs.
Mainzeal Interiors was awarded the hard fit-out contract valued at $520,000. The completed complex won a Property Council Award in 2003 and in 2007 was recognised by Architecture NZ as one of the 20 key buildings of the past 20 years.