Developer: Waitemata District Health Board
Architect: JASMAX 
Contractor: Hawkins Construction
Location: North Shore, Auckland
Service Type: Facade Engineering
 
Totara Haumaru (TH), formerly known as ECIB, stands as an upcoming hospital building set at 132 Shakespeare Road, Takapuna. As an integral part of the Waitemata District Health Board, it will be strategically positioned adjacent to the existing Elective Surgery Centre, enhancing the overall medical infrastructure in the area. The five-story structure, inclusive of plant facilities, is meticulously designed to house essential medical units, including operating suites, a post-anaesthesia care unit, an endoscopy procedural suite, and four 30-bed patient wards.

While the TH building prioritizes medical functionalities, it is noteworthy that the structure does not incorporate on-site parking. However, the site plan indicates future provisions for an external multi-story car park building, addressing potential parking needs. This forward-thinking approach reflects the long-term vision of the development and its adaptability to evolving requirements.

A significant feature of the project is the link bridge connecting TH to the existing Elective Surgery Centre. Comprising fully unitized curtainwall with aluminum sheet infill panels in a trapezoidal panel system, seismic joints, and careful attention to the perimeters and entries/exits, the bridge is a sophisticated component ensuring seamless connectivity between the two buildings. The link bridge enclosure encompasses vertical walls, roof systems, gutters, seismic joints, and soffit cladding, emphasizing both functionality and aesthetic coherence.

The façade systems of the TH building are diverse, addressing a range of requirements. From fully unitized curtain walls, windows, and door systems to precast concrete panels, profiled metal cladding and roof systems, glazed skylights, smoke extract sashes, louvre walls, and roof membrane systems, each cladding type serves a distinct purpose. These choices, guided by the Architect's vision, not only fulfill functional requirements but also prioritize internal comfort and provide external views into the surrounding landscape. Totara Haumaru represents a holistic approach to healthcare infrastructure, blending functionality, aesthetics, and future adaptability for a comprehensive healthcare experience.

DESIGN ENGINEERS, in collaboration with INSOL, took on the responsibility of delivering a comprehensive louvre PS1 package specifically tailored for the ambulance bay area. Our involvement encompassed a range of critical tasks aimed at ensuring the structural integrity and functionality of the proposed louvre system. A key aspect of our work involved the meticulous verification of the proposed louvre support system, emphasizing its ability to withstand various structural demands and ensuring its compliance with safety standards.

The analysis of louvre blades was a crucial component of our scope, where we delved into the intricacies of the design to assess its efficiency and resilience. This involved a detailed examination of the louvre blade dynamics, material properties, and overall performance to guarantee optimal functionality within the ambulance bay area. Additionally, our team undertook a comprehensive analysis of louvre fixings and brackets, essential elements in the overall stability of the louvre system. The focus here was on evaluating the strength, durability, and appropriateness of the fixing mechanisms, ensuring they align with the specific requirements of the ambulance bay environment. Recognizing the importance of environmental factors, we conducted a thorough wind loading assessment for the specified area. This assessment provided valuable insights into how the louvre system would respond to varying wind forces, contributing to the overall safety and performance of the ambulance bay louvre.

In essence, our collaboration with INSOL involved a multifaceted approach, addressing louvre support system verification, louvre blade analysis, louvre fixing and bracket analysis, and wind loading assessment. This holistic engagement reflects our commitment to delivering not just individual components but a fully integrated and structurally sound louvre system tailored to the unique demands of the ambulance bay area.