Piazza takes shape
Glazing for the Aotea Square redevelopment was supplied by Glass Projects
The refurbishment of Aotea Square didn't just create an engineering precedent it also gave the designers an opportunity to explore a new form of architectural glass construction.
Glass Projects was contracted to source, supply and install frameless glass box enclosures for the stairs leading to the Civic car park.
The design incorporated mortice and tenon glass-to-glass construction the first time this has been used in New Zealand. Glass Projects worked very closely with Architectus and Aurecon Facade Engineers to develop sequential installation methodologies to achieve the glass box result, which is similar to that used by the famous Apple Store in New York.
Low-iron toughened multi-laminated glass was used on the enclosure, with a ceramic fritted pattern on the vertical sides. At night, the pattern is enhanced by special LED lighting.
The enclosures were installed by Kubik the company's mechanical glazing robot. This solved many access issues for the main contractor, and avoided the need for traditional scaffolding.
Glass Projects also supplied and installed folding and stacking doors as part of the Cafe Box Office frameless glass facade, glazed balustrades to the main stairs, and glazed canopies. The glass balustrade infill panels incorporate stainless steel spider fittings by Nupress Facades. The canopies feature a purpose-made aluminium glazing bar system with ceramic fitted, toughened laminated glass panels.
For more information, contact Glass Projects, PO Box 51499, Pakuranga, Auckland 2140, phone (09) 273 2929. Website: www.glassprojects.co.nz.
Story by: Trendsideas
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