| 93 ARCHITECTURE Hoxha Bailey Architects Stiffe Hooker Excelling with innovation Stiffe Hooker prides itself on being innovative and high-performing, Virginia Wright The three owners of the Auckland-based architectural and engineering design practice, Stiffe Hooker, have between them over 53 years’ experience working at the practice, which was founded 70 years ago in Whangarei. The hands-on involvement of at least one of the owners in every project Stiffe Hooker handles reflects their understanding that the team is their biggest asset as they work together to provide clients with the services of highly experienced and outstanding design professionals. Stiffe Hooker prides itself on being innovative and high-performing, and the use of 3D modelling streamlines the design process from sketch to virtual simulation, making clear communication easy for all parties involved, and leading to a cost-efficient, dynamic and successful project delivery. Their design practice team is a collaborative group of architects, structural engineers and civil engineers, who are able to provide advice early on in their client’s journey, which can be of significant value to the project. Their pro-active understanding of local and regional government development expectations is invaluable to clients, and their long-established relationships with other consultants in the construction industry adds further depth to what they can offer. Led by one of its three directors, Michael Drinnan, Stiffe Hooker’s architectural and engineering expertise was recently brought into the Te hau Āwhiowhio ō Otangarei Trust - Hauora Whanau Centre project in Whangarei with Scope as project manager. The successful collaboration between Michael Drinnan and senior project manager Dylan Menzies involved turning an existing 1960s’ two-storey building into a fit-for-purpose medical centre, Te Whare o Rehua, complete with treatment rooms, rongoā Māori, and a nurse-led Hauora Whānau Centre on the ground floor. The trust’s head office is on the first floor, with additional rooms available for allied services, including budget advisers and social workers. “The practical challenges were providing for disabled access with a ramp and having to insert a new lift shaft into a 1960s’ building, which meant carefully working with the existing structure,” explains Michael. “Ground and structural subsidence had caused the floor to slope. Trenching revealed a deteriorated slab assembly with voids beneath and a failed DPM (damp proof membrane). We collaborated to develop an innovative re-levelling solution: resin-filling voids, sealing the slab and laying plastic fibre-reinforced concrete directly, saving time, cost and weight. By not using steel reinforcing we also cut down on carbon content so it was better for the environment as well,” he says. That innovative solution was one reason the project was Highly Commended in the Charitable Education Trust Award, Under $10 Million Project section of this year’s NZIOB (New Zealand Institute of Building) Building People awards, as was the collaboration in design to encompass Māori values while incorporating modern healthcare facilities. Hoxha Bailey currently has a small team of four, including the directors. O ering quality construction and management services for the discerning customer. The right choice for your biggest investment GRITY Experience Quality Integrity New Homes Renovations Interior Upgrades Ph: 09 444 8048 | Mobile: 021 979 367 (Ash Hare) PO Box 316-008, Wairau Valley, Auckland 0760 www.shorebuild.co.nz Shore Build has been in the construction industry for over three decades, undertaking projects mainly in the residential sector in Auckland. Our projects are comprised of high end new homes and renovations. www.scopeprojectsnz.com Scope is proud to support Sti e Hooker Ltd
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