Developer: Fisher & Paykel Appliances Ltd
Architect: RTA Studio
Contractor: 
Location: Penrose, Auckland
Service Type: Facade Engineering
 
Fisher & Paykel Shed building is a two-storey lab and workshop located on the on the 830 Great South Road, Penrose, Auckland. Each level has a floor area of approximately 2250m2, and an inter-storey height of approximately 6 metres. The ground floor is intended to house the heavier equipment and vibration-sensitive equipment. Level 1 consists of precast double tee flooring on structural steel beams and columns. The roof is lightweight steel structure with photo-voltaic panels. Central to the roof is a large plant area, predominantly outdoor, which acts as one with the roof structure though sits above the apex. The plant area is supported by 170Comflor 80 on steel beams. The design of the structure is to be in compliance with the New Zealand Building Code (NZBC), Clause B1: Structure. Specific design is to be in accordance with B1/VM.This building is to be designed as an Importance Level 2 structure with a design life of 50 years. 

The project's inception involved a comprehensive feasibility study of the overall metal screen system, addressing various critical aspects to ensure its viability and effectiveness. The feasibility study encompassed a thorough examination of the metal screen system's structural integrity, blade design, support system, railing system, fixing mechanisms, and overall connection scheme. Each component was scrutinized individually to gauge its compatibility with the architectural vision and functional requirements of the project.

Structural verification constituted a pivotal stage in the screen system assessment, with a detailed examination of the structural elements ensuring their capacity to withstand anticipated loads and environmental conditions. The intricate screen design underwent a meticulous check to ascertain its durability, aerodynamic performance, and alignment within the architectural framework. The support system for the screen structure underwent a rigorous assessment to confirm its robustness and compatibility with the overall architectural design. Similarly, the railing system and fixing mechanisms were subject to meticulous checks to guarantee their stability, functionality, and compliance with safety standards. The connection points of the metal screen system were a focal point of scrutiny, involving a detailed examination of the joints and interfaces to ensure their strength, durability, and seamless integration into the broader architectural context. This comprehensive evaluation extended to wind loading assessments, considering the louvre system's ability to withstand external forces and environmental variables. The final phase of the assessment involved a meticulous examination of the metal screen system's connection to the building structure. This critical aspect ensured not only the structural coherence of the metal screen system but also its seamless integration into the existing or planned building framework. The connection check encompassed a holistic examination of the attachment points, load-bearing capacities, and overall compatibility to guarantee the successful incorporation of the metal screen system into the architectural fabric of the project.

In summary, the feasibility study and assessments undertaken for the metal screen system encompassed a multi-faceted approach, addressing structural, aerodynamic, and integrative considerations. This detailed examination laid the foundation for a robust and functional metal screen system that aligns seamlessly with the architectural vision while meeting the project's performance requirements and regulatory standards.