By DLM Architects & Landscape Architects
DLM Architects were engaged to provide a design for the whole of the St Joseph’s Takapuna site as it had been identified as a roll growth school for the Catholic Diocese on the North Shore.
A development planning exercise spanning several years then took place with an agreed outcome of delivering 26 teaching equivalents, with a flexible capacity to grow to 30 should the need arise. As Dave had originally been involved in the Administration upgrade some 8 years earlier this helped to inform the overall approach.
The new building was developed to be carried out in two stages one of which was to connect the classroom block with the hall and the second stage an extension of the hall towards the bank. The new build is a significant development for the diocese being the biggest modern learning environment that had been completed by them.
There are two levels of 6 teaching space equivalents and a lower level of 2 for the new entrants. The building form is simple with a concrete and glass exterior that opens to the views but allows natural light and ventilation. The interior is open with accent colors to define internal space.
DLM provides services in Architecture and Landscape Architecture with the goal of creating innovative buildings and environments that respond to today’s rapidly changing culture. In each of these professions, we deliver a mix of skills and delivery methods for your project. We focus on delivering exceptional design with a considered and personal service.
Our mission is to produce unique design solutions by carefully interpreting the clients’ requirements, site potential and budget constraints. We regularly research international trends for cost-efficient, sustainable design solutions which leverage clever design to reduce long-term operational and maintenance costs. As specialists in a number of fields, we are well informed about future trends within the construction industry (particularly the changing role of emerging technologies) and how these trends will impact on architecture in the future.
DLM designers have a reputation for being practical, hands on people - consistently using cutting-edge practice to achieve the best results for their clients. We aim to create buildings that meet the needs of both current and future users, meet the budget of the owners, and have aesthetic and structural integrity that satisfies both.
Design and construction are some of the fastest-moving industries worldwide. We understand the need to design buildings that will be practical and timeless. We have an enlightened perspective on the future applications of the buildings we help to create. To gain this insight, we are constantly researching new materials and construction processes; seeking innovative design solutions; and keeping abreast of new regulations and industry standards.