Waipa Wood Processing Workshop
Sector: Education
Location: Rotorua
Status: Completed 2011
Size: 800m²
DCA won the open design competition for this project. The concept was informed by the two distinct functional requirements of timber workshop and academic spaces. The metaphor of saw milling was used, where cutting “divides” or “separates”. The plan and elevation inform this idea with the central circulation and ventilation space as the “blade” and separator.
The all-timber structure uses locally developed and pioneered timber components including some world first engineering technology with the STIC quick connect portal frames. The building uses Solar water, rainwater harvesting, and automated passive ventilation systems.
Awards.
2012 Resene Total Colour Awards: Education Section Winner
2012 ADNZ Awards: Resene Supreme Design Award
2012 ADNZ Awards: Commercial/Industrial Design Award
2012 ADNZ Awards: Commercial Interior Design Award
2012 ADNZ Awards: Resene Colour In Design Award
2012 NZ Timber Design Awards: Finalist
“The strength of green matched with the timber is reminiscent of fresh foliage and the greater environment. The stains draw attention to the key timber elements so appropriate for this educational facility. Wood is the star of the show and yet the colour has underscored this and excites it and draws your eye to the star.”