Overview
Following the devastating 2010/2011 Canterbury earthquakes, the need to quickly rebuild Christchurch City placed extreme pressure on the construction industry. New buildings needed to be fast, light weight and safe.
The selection of XLam CLT for this 300 bed hostel met all three requirements. The light weight gave a saving in foundation costs and safety assurance for future seismic events. Rapid assembly of CLT panels got the structure in place ahead of program and gave early access for the finishing trades.
Fire design has allowed much of the CLT to be exposed. The honesty of natural wood gives occupants a sense of warmth and hospitality.
Structural system
All floors and walls are XLam CLT. The two-storey structure has a floating ground floor over piles and so can be re-levelled in the event of future seismic disturbance. 3-layer structural CLT panels have been utilised throughout. Internal CLT walls are load-bearing and generally 60-85mm thick. Columns and beams are eliminated altogether. While floor panels and external walls are 105mm thick. Suspended ceilings conceal building services and assist with acoustic separation.
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Customer Endorsements
“On the strength of how well this project went, I have since used XLam CLT for the structure of our own Christchurch offices.”
“This is my first job with CLT and we are already ahead of program. The XLam panels fit together perfectly. Wood is easier for us to work with and the boys are enjoying it.”
