FLAGSHIP PARK

In many ways, the design and construction of this $25m project was straightforward, says construction director John Eaton of Teak Construction. Each building is a simple concrete beam and column structure, with curtain wall glazing and Zincalume roofing over a concrete slab. The three buildings are linked by a podium and covered walkway that provides a unifying design feature and a communal recreation area.

"We were invited to be involved in discussions with the architect and structural engineer from day one for example, I'd recommend products and finishes and the architect would take them on board," says Eaton.

Teak's recommendations meant that the project was finished on time and under budget. Significantly, most of the original specifications for in situ concrete beams were changed to off-site pre-cast beams, which led to considerable cost savings.

The company's early involvement also meant that some specifications could be upgraded. The finish for the stairwells was upgraded from timber framing and cladding to blockwork and pre-coloured Sto plaster. This plaster was also specified for the planter boxes and elsewhere externally.

Technically, the fact that each of the three buildings follows the same specification made the project more straightforward, says Eaton. Wide spans, with 17m-long double tee beams, also simplified the project, as there were no internal columns or shear walls on the exterior.

"This simplicity of design, with clean detailing, was reflected in the ease of construction," he says.

Teak Construction is an Auckland-based commercial firm established in 1992, with an annual turnover of $40m. The company has worked with the Candida Trust for the past 15 years on its new buildings and extensions to existing business premises.

For details, contact Teak Construction, 34 Barrys Point Rd, Takapuna, Auckland, phone (09) 489 6158, fax (09) 489 6106. Website: www.teak.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas