Developer: Central Otago District Council (CODC)
Architect: JASMAX
Contractor: Nalor Love Construction
Location: Cromwell
Service Type: Facade Engineering
 
In the realm of engineering, the task involves upgrading the existing Cromwell Memorial Hall to the new Cromwell Memorial Hall, Museum, and Events Centre. This revamped facility aims to serve as an enhanced hub for events, celebrations, creative activities, and remembrance in Central Otago. Positioned with a panoramic view of the Kawarau Arm of Lake Dunstan, the design of the center is crafted to harmonize with the distinctive natural landscape of Cromwell and Central Otago.

The project involves preserving and relocating an existing memorial dedicated to the fallen heroes of the two World Wars from the previous century to the new building's entrance. The upgraded facility will encompass a 400-seat auditorium and a new museum that seamlessly integrates with the Old Cromwell Town and Heritage Precinct. Additionally, the development plan includes a café, a 40-seat cinema, and community and event spaces with views overlooking the lakeside.

The DESIGN ENGINEERS played a pivotal role in delivering a comprehensive louvre engineering PS1 package for the designated project. This extensive package encompasses various critical components such as wind loading assessments, louvre blade system design, louvre support system design, railing system design, and connection engineering. The intricate details of these elements were meticulously crafted through the utilization of advanced structural analysis software, specifically STAAD PRO. This software facilitated a robust approach to structural engineering, ensuring the louvre system's resilience and efficiency under varying environmental conditions.

In addition to the detailed engineering design, the DESIGN ENGINEERS provided invaluable technical support and guidance to INSOL throughout the project. Their expertise proved instrumental in assisting INSOL to achieve the intended louvre system performance requirements as stipulated by the New Zealand building code and relevant standards. This collaborative effort aimed to not only meet but exceed the regulatory and performance benchmarks, reflecting a commitment to the highest standards of engineering excellence.

The wind loading assessments undertaken by DESIGN ENGINEERS were pivotal in determining the louvre system's ability to withstand external forces. The intricacies of the louvre blade system design, louvre support system design, and the overall structural framework were analyzed comprehensively to ensure optimal performance and longevity. The railing system and connection engineering were also scrutinized with precision, ensuring seamless integration and stability of the entire louvre system within the architectural context.

In supporting INSOL, DESIGN ENGINEERS not only provided a robust engineering solution but also acted as a knowledgeable partner in navigating the complexities of compliance with the New Zealand building code and standards. Their technical insights and advisory role contributed significantly to the successful realization of the intended louvre system, transforming the conceptual design into a structurally sound and code-compliant architectural element. This collaborative approach underscores the importance of the DESIGN ENGINEERS' role in ensuring the project's success and the long-term functionality of the louvre system within the specified regulatory framework.