Te Māra Apartments

CHALLENGE

In 2016, the Wellington City Council demolished the dated Arlington apartments – a 57-unit 1970’s complex in the inner-city suburb of Mount Cook - to build a new set of apartments called ‘Te Māra’.

The new and improved Te Māra Apartments would be a 105 unit and 300 bedroom apartment complex, comprising of 10 three storey buildings and 12 carparks. The challenge was to ensure the apartments had strong thermal performance, were energy efficient and sustainable. High acoustic performance was also essential to reduce external noises from the busy surrounding streets.

SOLUTION

Earthwool^® glasswool insulation: external wall batt, R2.8 was used for its strong acoustic performance, as well as its thermal performance. Earthwool^® glasswool insulation: acoustic ceiling batt 11kg/m³, was used in the ceilings to reduce sound transfer from the upper-level apartment. Earthwool^® glasswool insulation: roof blanket, R3.6 was used for its premium R-Value to ensure tenants feel comfortable in their new home.

RESULT

Higher than minimum Building Code requirements, Earthwool^® glasswool insulation: wall batt, R2.8 and roof blanket, R3.6 are providing comfortable living spaces and contributing to lower heating costs in winter and cooling costs in summer. Great care has been taken to install acoustic insulation in the inter-tenancy walls and ceilings – Earthwool^® glasswool outperforms other products in these acoustic applications.

Justin Leister, Wellington Mayor said: “This is a fantastic development. This is the newest social housing in New Zealand and certainly some of the best.”

Download the Case Study here.