Project overview

Victim to the Canterbury earthquake, the original Heathcote Community Centre was so seriously damaged that it had to be demolished. With the former library suffering the same fate, it made sense to combine the replacement facilities in a single new building, located adjacent to the Heathcote Domain.

The community and Christchurch City Council asked for an accessible, multi-purpose building that was inviting to youth and capable of hosting different groups concurrently.  A place that minimised maintenance and operating costs, was built sustainably and was efficient in its energy use.

Designed by architects Jerram Tocker Barron, the resultant building provides a welcoming, open and flexible series of indoor and outdoor spaces orientated toward the cricket field and afternoon sun, and enjoying views down the Heathcote valley.  Shelter and shade are given by a large over-sailing roof and modulation of the facade materials and openings.

Structural system

A high priority was assigned to providing a structural solution capable of withstanding earthquakes of the magnitude recently suffered in Christchurch. Structural engineers Engco lent their extensive experience with engineered timber to the project.

The XLam system was selected to provide a robust, light weight structure with sufficient ductility in the connections to absorb seismic energy. The spanning capabilities of XLam roof panels enabled long clear spans over the internal spaces, cantilevering impressively over the large outdoor deck.

The majority of internal XLam surfaces are clear finished to provide a warm, welcoming and durable interior. Externally the building is clad in a combination of cedar and fibre cement sheets with large areas of high performance glazing.

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