the living pā case study
ILLUSTRATION: Stantiall Studio
The Living Pā project, situated at Victoria University of Wellington’s Kelburn campus, serves as a remarkable example of how mass engineered timber construction can significantly reduce carbon emissions while providing an inspiring environment for learning.
In this case study, we will explore the sustainability achievements of the Living Pā and emphasise its role as a pioneer in high performance building, with deep-rooted connections to Māori values.
The Living Pā project represents an ambitious endeavour to transform Te Herenga Waka Marae, located on Kelburn Parade at Victoria University of Wellington, into one of the world’s most environmentally responsible hubs. This case study breaks down the project and offers insights into the design and construction.
The video below gives an indepth understanding on why the Living Pā was such an important design project.
key learnings & insights
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Prefabrication Benefits
Mass timber elements such as CLT and LVL were prefabricated, enabling quick on-site assembly. Floors were trafficable immediately after installation, unlike concrete slabs requiring curing time.Coordination Challenges
The project highlighted the need for early and precise design coordination to prevent costly and time-consuming changes during construction. -
Carbon Footprint Reduction
Engineered timber significantly reduced embodied carbon. The project aligns with the Living Building Challenge (LBC) by using low-carbon materials and prioritising operational carbon neutrality through features like on-site solar power and closed-loop water systems.Regenerative Design
The building contributes positively to the local ecosystem by integrating ethnobotanical planting and displaying real-time energy performance data to promote sustainability awareness. -
Seismic Resilience
Innovative structural solutions, such as timber combined with ductile steel elements, addressed seismic challenges, particularly in Wellington’s earthquake-prone environment.Acoustic Solutions
Timber’s natural properties required additional treatments like raised floors and acoustic panelling to manage sound transmission in a complex, multi-use space. -
Fire Resistance
Timber members were designed to char predictably during fires, ensuring structural stability. Critical fixings were recessed to protect them from high temperatures.Moisture Monitoring
Consistent monitoring of moisture levels was crucial. The team employed wireless sensors and moisture probes, refining their approach throughout construction. -
Integrated Design Process
The project’s complexity necessitated early involvement from contractors, consultants, and suppliers, fostering innovation and addressing challenges in real time.Cultural Partnership
Collaboration with Te Herenga Waka Marae ensured the integration of Māori values such as kaitiakitanga (guardianship) and Papatūānuku (Earth Mother) into the design and construction phases. -
Expanding CLT Use
The project demonstrated the viability of CLT for a variety of designs, encouraging its consideration in future builds.Market Evolution
The availability of improved “off-the-shelf” solutions since the project began underscores the growing maturity of the CLT market. -
Raising the Bar
By pursuing LBC certification, the Living Pā sets a precedent for ambitious, holistic sustainability goals, driving innovation in construction and design.Advocating for Change
The project emphasised systemic thinking, urging industry stakeholders to move beyond incremental improvements and embrace transformative practices. -
Design and Certification Synergy
The project revealed that achieving LBC certification requires a fundamental shift in traditional construction approaches, demanding rigorous collaboration and advocacy.Knowledge Sharing
Challenges such as moisture management and coordination complexities underscored the need for industry-wide learning and standardisation.