Architectus Auckland Guide
This map of Auckland City locates a number of key projects by the Architectus Auckland office. The map can be downloaded here and can be used for a self-directed architectural tour.
[video]
[video]
[video]
[video]
[video]
[video]
[video]
[video]
The ANU Laurus Wing student housing project provides a model for the future direction of student accommodation on the ANU campus. A high quality living environment has been created in a way that is economical, sustainable and designed for expansion and staged development.
Comprising 153 self contained living units, in a mixture of studio and one bedroom configurations, the orientation of the project towards north / north west, allows maximum solar access to over 80% of living units. The living modules are arranged into two linear ‘wings’ and are linked to a common lift lobby area and associated communal spaces forming a protected courtyard space which serves as a place for gathering and interaction.
Using pre-fabricated housing modules as the primary form of construction, an architectural expression was developed to echo the language of these living units. The challenge was to develop this chosen language so that the ‘pre-fab’ and the ‘in-situ’ components of the project could be unified into a single built entity.
The in-situ component included bike storage facilities, lifts, lobbies, common areas and supports for the modules. These were constructed prior to the installation of modules. The modules were then connected to the in-situ component part of the construction.
Throughout the construction process, a total of 16 lifting days were required between Stages 1 + 2 to install all of the modules. Each module was delivered approximately 30 minutes apart transported straight from the freighter terminal in Port Botany.
Up to 18 modules were delivered and installed per day. Installation of one module took approximately 20 minutes. With all the modules in place, the pre-fabricated fire stair was installed using the same mobile crane.
Living areas and private screened balconies to all modules have a north-west facing aspect, allowing residents good access to daylight and views to Black Mountain.
The external building materials have been chosen to reflect the unique construction methodology of the project – the majority of external cladding materials are pre-fabricated and panelized to maximize assembly efficiency. Materials have been selected for durability and low maintenance.
The use of green hues to delineate ‘cool and shady’ circulation zones and orange hues to represent ‘warm’ living zones to the glass panels creates a vivid, dynamic and varied expression across the building’s façade, whilst celebrating the modularity of the building.
(Artist’s impressions by Architectus, Stage 1 + 2, April – May 2009)
The ANU Laurus Wing building integrates a low cost, high quality pre-fabricated and affordable student housing module system with built in-place elements that deliver pleasant living and working environments that actively nurture learning and openly encourages social interaction between students.
The factory prefabrication process minimises wastage and reduces site energy consumption achieving better ESD outcomes than traditional construction methods.
(Artist’s impression by Architectus; Stage 1 + 2 prior to completion, August 2010)
Project Details
Location
Australian National University, Canberra
Total Development Area
2120m²
Construction
Modular living units pre-fabricated for J Hutchinson Builders
Steel Frame Construction + plasterboard + stud wall infill.
Lift Amenities + Common Area
R/C frame + columns, blockwork infill
Total Construction Time
9 months
Contractor/Client
J Hutchinson Builders Pty Ltd
End User
Australian National University, Canberra
(Construction Photographs, July 2009 Courtesy J Hutchinson Builders)