Mixed-use commercial development in Christchurch with retail, offices, large cafe courtyard

Christchurch has become a city defined by progress, as new buildings take shape and open for business along many of the city's thoroughfares.

The latest development in a raft of new building projects constructed by Calder Stewart is 100 Moorhouse Ave, which was developed by owner Peter Kelly and designed by Tim Dagg of Sheppard & Rout Architects. Adrian Mathieson, Calder Stewart regional manager, says the company has already completed four buildings at 70-76 Moorhouse Ave for the same developer.

"Building in the post-earthquake environment is always challenging," he says. "The ground conditions, in particular, pose potential hazards. For this mixed-use commercial building, the foundation was based on a concrete beam grid system, rather than the traditional raft slab, to provide more stability."

The building itself was constructed using a combination of precast concrete shear walls, concrete gravity frames for the lower level and structural steel portal framing for the upper level. Key design features include a central cafe courtyard between the two wings. This has adjustable overhead louvres that shelter the outdoor seating area.

There is also a canopy of louvres along the entire north-facing glazed front facade. These are fixed at an angle that provides shade to the offices, while still allowing plenty of natural light inside, thus reducing the load on the air conditioning systems.

The building features Corten steel on the rear walls, which present a more robust face to the rail corridor.

A quality interior fit-out reflects the developer's commitment to good design. Mathieson says Calder Stewart co-ordinated the integration of all the tenancy fit-outs with the base build.

For details, contact Calder Stewart Industries, PO Box 8356, Christchurch 8041, phone (03) 338 0013. Email: contactus@calderstewart.co.nz.Website: www.calderstewart.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas