Best foot forward

Landscaping materials play a major role in determining the overall look of the Albany Senior High School campus, but it wasn't just a question of aesthetics. Paving materials also needed to be strong, durable, low maintenance and cost effective.

To meet these requirements, clay pavers from Monier Bricks & Roofing were specified in three colours. The Jasmax landscape designers specified Monier Classic Cream, Monier Lasseter Gold and Monier Chestnut pavers, laid in a pattern that replicates the skin of the native copper skink that resides in the surrounding bush.

Monier Bricks & Roofing marketing manager Louise Farac says environmental concerns were a key consideration, and another reason the Monier pavers were chosen. "The longevity of clay pavers means their cost is very low over the term of their life. They can be pulled up and reused any number of times, which allows for flexibility of use, and meets the need for sustainability. They are also especially strong in terms of transverse breaking load and compression."

Farac says because the pavers are fired in a kiln, the natural colours are captured permanently. "The clay pavers will not fade with age or use in fact, the look often improves with age. And they can be cleaned easily to keep them looking as good as the day they were laid. Even aggressive cleaners, including acids and alkalis that might be used to remove difficult stains, won't damage the surface or the colour of the pavers."

MONIER BRICKS & ROOFING

7 The Furlong, PO Box 188, Takanini, Auckland 2245Freephone 0800 Monier (666 437) Fax (09) 299 7810www.monier.co.nz monier@csr.co.nz

Story by: Trendsideas