McIldowie Partners in association with Upton Architects and Structure Design Ltd
Project Location:
Epsom, Auckland
Categories:
Commercial Architectural Excellence
WINNER: Commercial Engineering Excellence
Project Description:
The Diocesan Aquatic Centre is a new indoor swimming pool facility at Diocesan School for Girls in Epsom, Auckland. It incorporates an eight-lane 20m long main swimming pool, with variable depth floor system, spectator seating for 400 people over a junior pool, and adjoining fitness centre, which includes a classroom and sports staff offices.
The use of a timber roof structure was preferred to create a warm visual ambiance for the interior and avoid the industrial look so prevalent in public pools and sports halls. However it was also important to avoid the rather heavy, chunky proportions associated with traditional glulam timber frames, and to somehow achieve a relatively light, delicate appearance.
Timber was also considered to be the most environmentally sustainable option being a local, renewable resource with low-embodied energy.
This use of timber on the Diocesan Aquatic Centre adds real warmth and richness to the interior, fulfilling structural, acoustic and durability criteria, while creating an impression of a truly well-crafted building.