New Lynn Community Centre

Environmental features

To reduce the need for mechanical ventilation and air conditioning, the foyer and the recreation hall areas are naturally ventilated through electrically operated windows. Rising warm air exits through higher windows, drawing in cool air through low-level windows.

The main hall and internal spaces, such as changing rooms and toilets, are mechanically ventilated. The only space that is air-conditioned is the main meeting room. This was necessary to achieve comfortable conditions while ensuring sound insulation from the adjacent railway tracks.

In the foyer, linoleum - made from natural products including linseed oil, natural resins and cork – was chosen over PVC for the floor covering.

Natural light is utilised by extensive glazing and supplemented by energy efficient electrical lights.

The timber seat in the foyer and the seats in the courtyard are made from New Zealand grown, plantation Eucalyptus saligna. The eucalypt species are naturally durable and a sustainable alternative to tropical hardwoods.

Polyester insulation has been used in the ceilings throughout the building in preference to fibreglass. The level of insulation (R2.5) used is substantially higher than the requirement for commercial buildings. This will keep warmth in during winter and heat out in summer.

The flooring in the recreation hall is Southern Blue Gum.

The roof beams are laminated, New Zealand grown, plantation pine. Timber is a renewable resource, which doesn't use much energy during its production. It was, therefore, used in preference to steel where possible.

Water savings are obtained in a variety of ways:

• Infrared tapware that automatically shut off taps 
• 6/3 litre dual flush toilets 
• Waterless urinals 

Bicycle racks encourage bike riding to reduce fossil fuel consumption by cars. The precast concrete panels of the main structure have in-built polystyrene insulation cores, reducing heating and cooling requirements.

The earth bund between the centre and the railway insulates against noise and vibration. Further noise insulation is achieved by placing the service areas at the rear of the building, nearest the rail lines.

Rainwater from the carpark is collected in a central swale system, to be filtered and detained before being discharged via the stormwater system to the Waitamata Harbour. Sandy loam soil, planted with Carex grasses, forms the top layer of the swale with a mulch preventing the soil being washed away. After filtering through the top layer the water is detained in tanks from where it is slowly released into the stormwater system. During large storms part of the carpark floods and acts as storage. This reduces flooding further downstream. Cesspit filter bags are also used for stormwater quality control.

You can take the same approach....

The approach taken for this building is equally applicable to homes and commercial buildings, so please don't hesitate to contact us if you feel inspired to pursue these methodologies of the future at "your place" or email us. 

For further information on this centre see New Lynn Community Centre.