108 | Warehouse converted to new school To transition the former warehouse into an educational facility, the building was reduced to approximately one hectare in size, and significant modifications were made to the front and sides. Marian College T T Karen Phelps COMMUNITY The transforming of a large warehouse/ distribution centre into the new Marian College is progressing well and the project is on track for completion later this year, says client representative for the project Shaun Mitchell: “It’s a pretty unique and exciting project.” Marian College, a Catholic state-integrated school for girls, was previously situated in North Parade, Shirley. When severe earthquake damage rendered its original location unsuitable for educational purposes, the Catholic Diocese of Christchurch decided to relocate the school to the northwest of Christchurch, settling on a prime location on Lydia Street, adjacent to St. Bedes and St. Joseph’s Primary School, just off Northcote Road. The newly acquired land came with a substantial pre-existing asset – a large warehouse and distribution centre sprawling across 1.7 hectares. At the time, it stood as one of the largest structures in the South Island. Shaun says that the Diocese contemplated three options for the existing building: demolishing it and erecting a new school from scratch, preserving the entire structure and outfitting it to serve as the school, or finding a compromise by demolishing a portion while repurposing the remainder for educational use. Ultimately the structural attributes of the building, such as its size and spacious spans, made it suitable for repurposing into a gymnasium and indoor courts, rendering the demolition option wasteful. So the decision was made to retain a significant portion of the building and undertake a substantial renovation to accommodate the entire school. The warehouse, constructed in various stages over the years, featured a diverse range of materials, prominently colour steel and tiltslab concrete. Its architecture boasted a distinctive multi-gable pitched roof. To transition the warehouse into an aesthetically pleasing educational facility, the building was reduced to approximately one hectare in size, and significant modifications were made to the front and sides. Large roller doors and panels gave way to expansive glazing, flooding the interior with natural light, creating a vibrant and inviting learning environment. Internally, the facility boasts a comprehensive array of amenities to cater to the school’s needs, with provisions for future expansion if required. “There are two levels of spacious classrooms to accommodate the school’s 430 year 9 – 13 students,” Shaun explains. “As well as classrooms on the ground level, there is a fullsize gymnasium, an administration block, two full-size indoor courts, two three-quarter-sized indoor netball courts, a performing arts block, and a library.” The gymnasium boasts an impressive ceiling height, with potential seating above the performing arts areas, overlooking the gymnasium. A chapel will prominently occupy the ground floor’s central area, while air bridges will interconnect upper level classrooms. Complementing these internal facilities will be landscaped outdoor grounds and a full-size sports field. Shaun says that obtaining Green Star Certification is a pivotal aspect of the project. This certification evaluates the project’s sustainability across key categories, including materials, energy use, and water savings. The project enlisted Christchurch builder Armitage Williams as the lead contractor following a rigorous tender process. Christchurch architectural practice Sheppard & Rout completed the design. The construction journey commenced in late 2021 and included significant seismic strengthening to bring the building up to the standards required for an educational facility. Shaun says the new school will be a game changer for students and teachers and anticipation is building for the imminent completion of the project later this year. “As well as classrooms on the ground level, there is a full-size gymnasium, an administration block, two full-size indoor courts, two three-quarter-sized indoor netball courts, a performing arts block, and a library.” Proudly supporting the Marian College development Cost Managers | Quantity Surveyors | Cost Engineers Auckland | Wellington | Christchurch | Dunedin www.rawlinsons.co.nz Proud to be part of the project team delivering the Marian College New School Development PROUD TO BE ASSOCIATED CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF CHRISTCHURCH Find us at: www.taggart.net.nz | (03) 323 7085
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