Built in response to the New Zealand Governments call for a showcase landmark timber building the Arts & Media Building of the Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) is the first of its kind. Constructed in Nelson, the building resists lateral loading through the use of coupled Pres-Lam walls. Gravity loads are carried by post and beam construction and a timber-concrete composite floor.

Damage-limiting Pres-Lam elements were combined with passive approaches to daylighting, ventilation and shading creating a truly sustainable structural design. Timber elements were left exposed displaying the warmth and functionality of the material.

Serving a dual educational role the Arts & Media building serves as a place to teach and exhibit art and inform industry of the creative possibilities of structural timber. All this was made possible through the use of the Pres-Lam structural system.

Image 1 (top): Exterior, street view.
Image 2 (right): Exterior, opposite street view.
Image 3 (below): Interior view of hallway and staircase.
Photos by Daniel Allen Photography