Innovation Award

This award recognises that transformation is happening in our sector and is awarded to the project that has taken an innovative approach and achieved a positive outcome. Innovation could be in the field of process, design, construction, materials or technology

H T M L Code
Innovation Award

Project: Greys Ave Complex

Entrant

ICON NZ

Project Partners

ICON NZ (Construction Company), MODE Design (Architect/Designer)

Owned By

ICON CO PTY NZ LTD

This Te Matawai complex is the first large-scale, single site housing redevelopment in New Zealand. It includes 276 homes built to a Homestar 7 standard (New Zealand’s leading holistic sustainability certification for new home design and construction). The complex also consists of shared spaces for activities, recreation, and social connection. Many apartments have additional accessibility features such as side opening ovens and lower shelving, to facilitate independent living for those in wheelchairs. The project achieved significant milestones, including supplier diversity, with a significant portion of the spend directed toward Maori and Pasifika-owned businesses, social enterprises, and female-owned businesses. It also incorporates local iwi Ngati Whatua Orakei cultural design elements within the architecture, interior, and landscape design.

Judges comments

Innovation was key in this project, which is Kainga Ora’s first large-scale, single-site housing redevelopment in New Zealand. A commitment to innovation throughout design, procurement and construction has resulted in a building that truly walks the talk, and the success is evident in the communal feel of the day-to-day workings within and around the building. Social innovation was a crucial component in how the building operates and was integral to the design as both the living spaces and onsite facilities were designed to meet resident’s needs. For example, rather than locating housing on the ground floor, this area consists of commercial spaces where occupants of the building can secure jobs and gain both an income and work experience, a helpful pathway to employment beyond what the building provides.