Inner-city refuge

The popularity of inner-city living has boomed in recent years. The Sanctum residential complex marks a number of firsts for urban apartments

Lobby area of apartment complex featuring basalt paving, architecture, building, condominium, daylighting, floor, flooring, glass, interior design, lobby, real estate, window, black, gray — Lobby area of apartment complex featuring basalt paving, and extensive glazing and glass balustrades.

Courtyard of apartment building with basalt veneer cladding, architecture, building, condominium, facade, floor, glass, house, interior design, wall, window, black, gray

Firebox surround clad in decorative basalt cladding. angle, fireplace, floor, flooring, furniture, hardwood, hearth, living room, wood burning stove, gray

Apartment complex with first two storeys clad in apartment, architecture, building, commercial building, condominium, corporate headquarters, daytime, elevation, facade, headquarters, house, metropolitan area, mixed use, neighbourhood, property, real estate, residential area, tower block, blue

Ensuring the Sanctum complex will remain an icon of architectural achievement, meant specifying the most durable of building materials.

For the exterior cladding and columns, paved areas, lobby tiling and fireplace surrounds basalt rock was selected, due to its hard-wearing nature and aesthetic qualities.

John Richmond of SCE Stone and Design says natural stone is an excellent choice for both industrial and domestic applications as it is straightforward to maintain and can be specified in a variety of finishes ranging from highly polished through to non-slip.The majority of Sanctum's exterior cladding is created using a 30mm-thick honed basalt veneer, with panels of textured material providing a degree of visual relief.

The basalt veneer has been mechanically fixed to the main structure using stainless steel brackets prior to being jointed with a silicon sealant. This method of application allows for a cavity between the stonework and the structure, meaning any water ingress drains away. It also creates a perfect plumb line, rectifying any structural inconsistencies.

SCE Stone and Design assists with the specification and supply of products throughout New Zealand.

"In addition to large commercial projects, the company specialises in facilitating installations where only the most exacting tolerances are acceptable," says Richmond.

These include granite or Caesarstone bench tops, marble bathrooms, limestone floors, pool surrounds and light-weight super-yacht fit-outs, as well as maintenance, repair, refurbishment and sealing of natural stone and tiles.

For further information contact SCE Stone and Design, 189 Marua Rd, Ellerslie, Auckland, phone (09) 526 4580, fax (09) 579 0583. Email: sales@scestoneanddesign.co.nz. Or visit the website: www.scestoneanddesign.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas

10 Dec, 2004

Apartments

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Inner-city refuge

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