An investment in the future
Located on ‘one of the windiest sites in one of the windiest cities’, the tower’s sleek form is able to disperse and reduce the impact of downdraft effects – a result of rigorous wind-tunnel testing of the design. A striking canopy wraps the entire perimeter supported on repeating concrete fins to further protect pedestrians. Even the building’s Ballance Street entry has been located to avoid frontages with higher wind exposure.
BNZ Place is one of the most seismically advanced developments in Aotearoa New Zealand. The structure is base-isolated from the ground to avoid significant structural damage resulting from a 1 in 500-year earthquake. The building is raised on a plinth to minimise climate change related flood risks. With the diagrid structure supported on piles which extend 60m below ground, the design targets an NBS rating in excess of 180%, significantly exceeding building code requirements for seismic strength.
