HENDERSON VALLEY STUDIOS:
A PROTOTYPE DESIGN FOR AFFORDABLE ACCOMODATION TO HELP RESOLVE THE HOUSING CRISIS
This development features affordable, furnished studio accommodation in Henderson, Auckland. 72 studio apartments are located over three 3-storey blocks. We were engaged as the structural
engineer on this important project, which is designed to increase Auckland’s housing stock efficiently and quickly.
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Benefits of having us on the team:
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Working with the developer and design team, we identified the opportunity to create a structural prototype that is efficient, cost effective, and can be used for all the developer’s new buildings going forward.
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The prototype features repetitive design to ensure design and construction efficiency. It also uses products New Zealand builders are familiar with, are readily available and are quick to
construct. We also adapted well-known foundation and bracing systems with flexibility to adapt to different soil types and wind zones.
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Many of the structural solutions can be prefabricated offsite, ensuring 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. Our design is sympathetic to structural loads, aesthetics and buildability.
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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.