PROJECT DESCRIPTION
In a changing housing market, the idea of a quarter acre section and a large home is increasingly out of reach for many Kiwis. The idea of medium density housing across all budgets is becoming more and more common. The Kenny Ave Development is set to change from a 2,157m² section with a large single level residence to 10 apartments in 2021. This change will add much needed housing to the growing Ahuriri area in a way that maximises the medium density living rules in the Napier City Council plan.
WSP in Napier has been working closely with architects Young & Richards, land development company Development Nous, and Vision Homes to provide geotechnical & structural engineering expertise in both the resource consent and building consent stages. The design is in keeping with the heritage area and has adopted the recognisable ‘saw tooth’ roof profile seen throughout Ahuriri.
The Napier WSP Property & Buildings Team delivered the geotechnical advice and structural design of the first of two sets of five apartments on time and within budget given a challenging 2020 year.
Constant collaboration throughout the design stage has meant that our clients have retained the ability to influence the design decision making. We believe this approach undoubtedly leads to better onsite solutions.
CLIENT BRIEF/PROJECT CHALLENGES
WSP was asked to assist on the following; •
- Gravel raft, foundation and services coordination.
- Foundation design, bracing design, cantilevered balcony, handrails and overall building performance design.
- Design for durability in a highly corrosive environment.
- Design to minimise structural steel where possible, to keep with the intended aesthetic
- Incorporate HiandDri bottom plate packers in the two-storey design.
OUR SOLUTION
WSP adopted a highly collaborative approach with the other lead designers, contractors/client to come up with a design that worked theoretically and practically. We were able to use our Napier geotechnical and structural resources to solve multi-disciplinary staging problems. We have drawn on design expertise from around the regional business to provide support and verification from similar projects around the country. Finally, we utilised our material experts to provide durable and cost effect coating systems for the aggressive environment.
OUTCOME/CLIENT BENEFITS
Providing medium density housing across all budgets and in keeping with the heritage of the area.
LIST OF PRIMARY SERVICES
Geotechnical & structural engineering
KEY FACTS
The design is in keeping with the heritage area and has adopted the recognisable ‘saw tooth’ roof profile seen throughout Ahuriri.
