Beachside high-rise

Akey feature of the exterior of the Nautilus apartment complex is the curved eastern fae§ade. While it contributes significantly to the overall design aesthetic, it also created a challenge for the builder, Multiplex Constructions.

Project manager Dave Heritage says the complexity of the design required a very high standard of survey control and pre-casting of components for these most critical areas.

"Concrete slabs were radiused from a very controlled grid, with three different radii used to create the precast slabs, allowing precision placement at this critically controlled location," he says.

Heritage says similar surveying was needed to ensure internal walls were accurately placed, as there are very few right-angled walls in the building.

"Walls in most rooms are angled to maximise the views. This involved measuring angles, not only in degrees, but in minutes and seconds."

Heritage also says floor plans were not all identical. While Floors 4-11 are fairly typical, with 18 apartments on each floor, including a large end unit, there were minor differences on each floor that added to the complexity of the project. The 12th floor features 12 larger apartments.

The construction of shear walls between apartments to provide cross-sectional support for wind loading created a further challenge. The walls needed to be as high as the double-storey structural steel, so were poured in situ, two storeys at a time.

Multiplex was also responsible for hiring and managing all sub-trades to deliver a compliant building within an appropriate timeframe.

For further information, contact Multiplex Constructions (NZ), PO Box 3100, Shortland St, Auckland, phone (09) 377 9483, fax (09) 377 9471. Website: www.multiplex.biz.

Story by: Trendsideas