64 | Timber the ideal material A simple plywood layer above the exposed cantilevered glulam beams adds visual warmth to the interior. T T from page 62 Smith Architects ARCHITECTURE “For early childhood buildings, timber is an ideal material that adds the kind of warmth you would struggle to get from much else. It brings a real softness. Humans have used timber for a long time and have a real affinity for it and in that setting – with trees all around – it sits nicely in the outdoor environment and location. “Using timber also makes sense from an embedded carbon perspective. By using timber as the main spanning element for the roof, we were really seeking to push the boundaries of where it can go. Creating the cantilevered canopy roof is really useful for providing shelter and cover for activities outside and, with doors fully open, the children can go in and out all day long.” The clever design dispenses with the need for corridors while the simple roof structure also represents a saving on construction materials and time. At the same time, the circular form promotes connectivity and security, making this just the right kind of friendly, safe place for young children to learn and grow. Aspec Construction, which has worked with St Kentigern School on other successful past projects, completed the build in February 2023. “They have done a great job.” Phil says the building was designed to have a minimal impact on the stunning tree and bush surrounds, with rainwater from the roof also used to recharge local springs. 027 686 1106 dannychai@hotmail.com GOLDENWOOD INTERIORS SCAFFOLDING | SHRINK WRAP MOBILE TOWERS | PORTALOOS FENCING | PROPPING NETTING Proud to support Smith Architects 0800 666 468 | affordablescaffolding.co.nz It’s Sustainable, It’s Storing Carbon, It’s Engineered Timber. ∙ Metal Tray Roof & Wall Cladding ∙ Fabrication, Manufacturing & Installation 09 640 0009 www.mds.net.nz Proudly supporting Smith Architects “This is the first such project we’ve done in our local area, so it has been lovely to hear so much positive feedback from preschool staff and families along with the wider community.”
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