What if we had the tools to minimise damage while accelerating construction? 

WSP developed a unique and positive result in this high-risk seismic zone with deep soft ground conditions due to the proximity to the Avon River.

The cost-efficient steel framing, combined with a viscous damped bracing system, allowed WSP to meet the operational requirements as well as Te Whatu Ora’s tight budget for an IL3 building. The reduced foundation loads are governed by gravity loads rather than seismic, resulting in lower storey drifts which directly correlates to less superstructure damage in a seismic event.

It also reduces the floor accelerations which limits potential damage to secondary structure and building contents during an earthquake.

The solution resulted in a more economical foundation design - decreasing steelwork tonnage made the structure quicker to erect. The design was supported by using partially prefabricated steel and full-height columns which were grouted from the bottom - making construction faster, safer, and cheaper, as many steps could be carried out at ground level instead of working at heights.

To facilitate co-ordination between all disciplines we used our BIM capability extensively and, beyond what is typically provided, modelled the primary and secondary structure to a level of detail of 300-350. This allowed for services/structure clash detection, sped up the shop drawing process, and provided a model used for ordering, planning erection sequence, and quality control by the contractor.

During the construction phase of the project, where an even higher level of co-ordination was required, we implemented a cloud-based tool, BIMTrack, in conjunction with Autodesk Navisworks, which supported co-ordination between all parties. 

What if by prioritising sustainability, we increased efficiency?

Our future-focused design incorporated many solutions that considered whole-of-life cost and maintenance implications.

This included permeable pavements and stormwater attenuation.WSP designed a stormwater attenuation tank with a storage capacity of approx. 100m3 to reduce peak site run-off.

Our design also considered stormwater treatment to improve ground water quality We specified that the steel reinforcement used was fully recyclable and had a recycled content of over 99%. To preserve an existing protected tall Copper Beech tree, we developed special paving details to protect the tree roots and incorporate rainwater percolation, and adapted the design of the shape of the structure to fit around the tree. 

What if we could deliver fit for future and state-of-the-art care in Aotearoa?

The Christchurch Hospital Outpatients Building is resilient, meaning it is less likely to be damaged in and more likely to be available for immediate use following a future earthquake.

While the building was not required to be designed to IL4, the use of the high-performing viscous damped bracing system means damage to the building will be reduced compared to other IL3 buildings in a significant earthquake event, - while delivering a flexible, functional space for its users.

In addition, the BIM model developed by WSP, and provided to Te Whatu Ora, will serve as a valuable reference resource for maintenance and potential future changes, allowing for maximum flexibility to provide state of the art healthcare. 

What if we improved recovery by connecting to nature?

Global research shows thata strong connection to the natural environment can promote patient recovery. The structural system was therefore designed to have no perimeter structural walls and minimal braces to maximise natural light and views of the green spaces in Hagley Park and along the Ōtākaro/Avon River. 

What if collaboration led to award winning results?

Collaboration with other consultants was key to delivering this project. We worked in a consortium with the lead architect, health planner, and building services consultants to deliver economic and time-saving design solutions, also considering Safety in Design through all project stages.

We further led multi-disciplinary teams, including structures, geotechnical and civil, for a seamless delivery of the intertwined disciplines. Our understanding of complex multi-function spaces and required building performance was essential while working closely together with the clinical stakeholders, especially Ophthalmology, to assess the vibration response of the floors.

WSP performed complex analyses and measurement of actual vibrations on the existing health campus to collaboratively define Ophthalmology’s brief and then develop options to reduce floor response.

In addition, through elevated levels of engagement, with both the local authority and Te Whatu Ora’s wider design team, WSP successfully integrated the civil engineering requirements into the landscaping.

Our positive ‘best for project’ approach across the full design and construction team was recognised through being awarded the 2019 New Zealand Institute of Building Interdisciplinary Collaboration Award.