RMBA sites

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Leighs Construction

Project Partners

Beca (Engineer), Lab-works Architecture (Architect/Designer), Leighs Construction (Construction Company), Rider Levett Bucknall (Quantity Surveyor), The Building Intelligence Group (Project Manager), Warren & Mahoney (Architect/Designer)

Owned By

Lincoln University

The Waimarie Building, a flagship science facility for Lincoln University in Canterbury, was masterfully executed by Leighs Construction. This three-story facility houses the University's Department of Pest Management and Conservation and Department of Soil and Physical Sciences. It represents a significant advancement in educational infrastructure, with state-of-the-art laboratories. Notably, the new building incorporates significant sustainable features, including solar arrays, ground-sourced heating and cooling systems, and rainwater-fed toilets. The use of locally sourced materials and the integration of seismic damping devices further highlight the project's innovative approach to sustainable construction.

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Fat Parrot Architecture

Project Partners

Aspec Construction (Construction Company), Bladon Bronka Acoustics (Acoustic Consultant), EDC Engineering Design Consultants (Engineer), Fat Parrot Architecture (Architect/Designer), Halogen Audio (Engineer), Lawrence Jones Partners Ltd (Engineer), Milne Project Management (Project Manager), MSC Consulting Engineers (Engineer), Nelligan Consulting Engineers (Engineer)

Owned By

Pinehurst School

The new Theatre and College 5 building at Pinehurst School was an ambitious project by Fat Parrot Architecture, as the main auditorium and performance space needed to align with the school’s overarching design philosophy of creating interconnected and functional spaces. An elegant but practical focal point, the building's forms and material palette harmonise with the existing campus environment. The project stands out for its exceptional teamwork, innovative solutions, and bespoke design elements. Notably, the project includes a photovoltaic solar system, serving as an energy-saving feature and an educational tool for the school.

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Hawkins

Project Partners

Architectus (Architect/Designer), BECA (Engineer), Colliers Project Leaders (Project Manager), Hawkins (Construction Company), Jasmax (Architect/Designer)

Owned By

University of Waikato

The Pa at The University of Waikato, led by Hawkins, is an exemplary blend of cultural heritage and contemporary design. The vision of the project was to create a space that serves as a welcoming entrance to the campus, as well as a place for corporate functions, cultural teachings, and retail, including food services. A key feature of The Pa is the Wharenui, which stands at the heart of the complex. This central element is complemented by a blend of traditional and contemporary Maori artworks, narrating the story of the land's original forested state through a diverse mix of native timber, concrete, and steel. The project's architectural complexity is highlighted by its unique combination of curved elements and exposed surfaces, creating an aesthetically pleasing yet functional space.

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DPA Architects

Project Partners

All Season Builders (Construction Company), DPA Architects (Architect/Designer)

Owned By

Bear Park Hobsonville Limited

This project involved the design of a standalone extension to Bear Park Early Childcare Centre, located in a Category B heritage-listed building at Hobsonville Point. DPA Architects were commissioned to design the new addition having already been involved in the restoration and conversion of the 1930s building, which is a much-loved landmark. The structure of the new building allows the character of the neighbouring two-storey heritage home to retain its visual clarity, while also making subtle references to the design, without intruding on its heritage values. The project required a delicate balance between the active childcare environment and the construction site; this was achieved through a multi-stage consent process and meticulous planning during extended lockdowns. The design successfully addresses numerous technical challenges, including the protection of a heritage Liquidambar tree.

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ASC Architects

Project Partners

ASC Architects (Architect/Designer), Leighs Construction (Construction Company)

Owned By

Ministry of Education

The Whangarei Boys' High School redevelopment project provides a state-of-the-art educational facility and a beacon of biculturalism in the broader community. The project’s success is a testament to the power of collaboration between architects, construction teams, Iwi, and the community. A vital feature of this redevelopment was the significant input from Mana Whenua, Ngati Kahu o Torongare and Te Parawhau. Their involvement ensured that the design and construction honoured Maori learning principles and provided a welcoming entrance by Tikanga. This approach enriched the school's educational environment and strengthened its role as a community hub, offering facilities like the relocated Whare and Hall for public events.

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DLA Architects

Project Partners

DLA Architects (Architect/Designer), Livingstone Building (Construction Company)

Owned By

Future Focus

The Future Focus Early Learning Centre was prompted by the rapid subdivision development of Papamoa and the subsequent demand for high-quality early childhood facilities in the area. The project team had a vision for a centre that would offer a nurturing and inspiring environment, fostering the learning, growth, and care of the children, while also enriching their experiences through thoughtful design. Architecture form and scale were carefully considered to reflect an aesthetic that is sympathetic to a child’s view of the world. Environmental sustainability was integral to the project, with sustainable elements that double as educational tools incorporated throughout. From the ombre fishtail textured brick wall to the plywood wall and ceiling linings, the team’s skill is evident.

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Stephenson & Turner

Project Partners

Holmes Construction (Construction Company), Stephenson & Turner (Architect/Designer)

The Wairarapa College Tahu Hospitality/Food Technology Hub and Whare Awhina Supported Learning Centre project has been designed to foster a sense of place, identity, and belonging within the school environment. Offering state-of-the-art facilities to coincide with the college's existing architectural heritage, the project simultaneously addressing the needs of its diverse student body. The construction phase maintained a focus on safety and operational continuity for the bustling school campus, ensuring minimal disruption to the schools over 1,000 students and the broader community activities hosted on site.