About

Reinstatement & Restoration.

ArchiPro Project Summary - Copper reinstatement and restoration of Auckland's iconic Stardome Observatory, preserving its classic architectural style while enhancing its durability and aesthetic appeal for future generations.

Title:: Auckland's Stardome Observatory | Copper Reinstatement & Restoration
Manufacturers and Supplier:: Ambro Metals
Category:: Community/; Educational
Region:: Royal Oak, Auckland, NZ
Completed:: 2024
Building style:: Classic
Photographers:: Ambro Metals

Copper Restoration on Auckland's Icon, Stardome.

Auckland’s Iconic Stardome Observatory in Royal Oak unfortunately was vandalized in May 2023 while other works were being carried our to the facility. Originally installed in 1967 the Stardomes shield of Copper on the constructed Timber dome that opens serviced thousands of would be star gazers for over 55 years before the vandalism took place. The timber dome clad in Copper was selected as the ultimate metal prized for its soft formability and self healing characteristics when disturbed and formed. The Copper showed no signs of failed over this time upon review and reconstruction. The Copper’s maturity over the years displayed by the colour of the self forming patina had transitioned through the many stages only getting to this point with age. The original installation methods saw a combination of Copper nails to piece on the curved Copper sheeting to the timber dome brought over from East Germany. After remedial works were completed to the Timber structure the Team at IG Roofing who were already working on the EURAMAX cladding for an opposing pyramid structure of the facilities roof were commissioned to reinstate the Copper cladding to the dome. A combination of traditional forming and more advanced securing techniques were used to secure the Copper not only providing an attractive architectural appeal but ensured maximum material security. Fixing of the panels using hidden clips with each tapered panel seamed together side by side brought the individually pieced puzzle together to form the dome allowing for expansion. The result put the Stardome back on track to continue its historical journey to educate may others in the years to come.

Project Gallery

Original Copper | Theft & Vandalized | During Reconstruction | Installed Completion

Original Copper Cladding with developed Patina. Flat panels were applied with silicon bronze nails to conceal the timber dome, a historical fixing method used.

Reinstated New Copper in tapered standing seam panels with hidden copper fixing clips. A more modern approach to securing the individually formed panels.

Ambro Metals Ltd

The New Copper Clad Dome with EURAMAX precoated Aluminum finish "Matte Dark Bronze" in the back drop. Both selected for individual performance attributes in the renovation upgrade to Auckland's Star Dome observatory. .

Views and Engagement

Professionals used

Ambro MetalsManufacturers and Suppliers

Ambro Metals

Manufacturers and Suppliers

Auckland

ambrometals.com

Ambro Metals. Established in 1981 and based in Avondale, Auckland. Ambro Metals Ltd offers a wealth of experience in the sourcing and the supply of high quality Architectural and Industrial non-ferrous Metals. We aim to provide long term, innovative, sophisticated Architectural Metal Solutions with strong warranties to meet the demands of local environments. Many years of success in servicing a wide range of industries has given us a solid foundation to help establish a new range of products for the New Zealand market. Working closely with our network of respected suppliers around the world, we offer our customers a comprehensive range of stock and supply solutions to meet their requirements. If you are after advice or have any queries, get in touch.