20 | A united approach A major challenge was the decision to use an in-situ concrete structure with 50MPa post-tensioned slabs. Kalmar Construction T T Karen Phelps REGIONAL Delivering a premium retirement development in a sensitive heritage environment required more than technical expertise. It demanded collaboration, careful planning and a team capable of managing thousands of moving parts. For Kalmar, The Foundation’s second building – Abbott Residences located in the heart of Parnell, Auckland – was its largest project to date. Designed by Peddlethorp, the retirement development for client Generus Living presented a complex combination of ambitious design requirements, strict tolerances and the need to coordinate a large number of stakeholders, says Kalmar project manager, Nicholas Botha. “The project involved around 2000 people over the 2.5-year programme, including consultants, subcontractors and suppliers. Everyone had to understand their role and how it contributed to the bigger picture,” he says. A major challenge was the decision to use an in-situ concrete structure with 50MPa post-tensioned slabs. The approach provided the precision required for features such as full-height glazing and the building’s architectural requirements, but it also introduced additional challenges around placement, curing and quality control. Nicholas says that early planning and collaboration were critical to managing those risks. “We spent a lot of time validating the critical elements early. We built full-scale façade mock-ups, including balconies, so consultants and the team could resolve issues before they became problems on-site.” The façade itself required extraordinary precision with more than 16,500 Jura Limestone pieces installed with tolerances of just 5mm over three metres. The project also required extensive international procurement, including stone from Germany, De Gournay wallpaper from London, and corridor carpet from India. Managing these complex supply chains and ensuring every detail met the required standard required a united approach from the entire project team. “The success came down to people,” says Nicholas. “Everyone from the labourers through to the consultants understood the quality we were aiming for and took ownership of their part.” That focus on people extended beyond construction delivery. Kalmar created a strong team culture on-site, prioritising communication, wellbeing and respect. Regular coordination meetings allowed issues to be identified early, and engagement with neighbouring organisations helped ensure the project was delivered considerately within the Parnell community. The result was a building completed ahead of programme with strong cost control despite challenging market conditions. Nicholas says the outcome came from shared commitment and a clear vision. “It was never about one person delivering the project. It was about creating an environment where everyone could contribute, collaborate and take pride in what we achieved together.” contraxgreen.co.nz CONTRAX Delivering custom landscape construction services with Contrax. Paving • Soft Landscaping • Timber Works • Steel Works • Concrete Works • Civil Siteworks GET IN TOUCH 7D Orbit Drive, Rosedale, Auckland 0632 (09) 414 4301 admin@contraxgreen.co.nz www.contraxgr en.co.nz
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