New Zealand Commercial Design Trends Series NZ Commercial Design Trends Vol. 30/12 | Page 70

SURFACE ATTRACTION To enhance the character of the new commercial building at 76-78 Victoria St, Christchurch, the architect specified two different local stone facades from Stoneface New commercial buildings in Canterbury have an architectural expression that reflects a unique, regional design response. And the use of natural local materials is a key factor for many of these projects. To add a local flavour to the new building at 76-78 Victoria St, Christchurch, the design team at MAP Architects specified natural stone facings that were designed, processed, supplied and installed by Stoneface. Mt Somers limestone clads the base of the exterior of the building, while Timaru bluestone clads a feature wall in the entry. Stoneface selects each piece of stone for its intrinsic character. The stone is then calibrated, shaped to suit the dimensions required, and processed to allow accurate positioning using adjustable stone supports (Stonemec). This support system, which has been engineered to meet New Zealand building standards, allows each stone plate to carry its own weight back to the substrate without load transfer to the adjoining stones. Stone facings from Stoneface are particularly well suited to applications where weight concerns may limit the use of solid stone. The lighter weight of the stone facing means the stone can be suspended to create a cavity behind. It can also be installed easily around service ducts or overhead, on bulkheads. Stoneface natural stone facings are well suited to both commercial and residential projects. For further information, contact Stoneface, 407b Selwyn St, Addington, Christchurch, phone [phone]. Email: [email protected]. Website: www.stoneface.co.nz save & share 46181 at trendsideas.com Above:Stoneface installed Mt Somers limestone (top) and Timaru bluestone (above) to this new Christchurch building. 62 search | save | share at trendsideas.com