“Seismic strengthening to such an expressive and beautiful heritage building was a huge challenge technically, but much of the work done is largely concealed from view.’’ Lloyd MacLachlan - Architect
“I spent hours with antique dealers and demolition yards looking for the right fittings such as door handles, locks and light switches,’’ says Mr MacLachlan. “At the last moment we discovered two cast- iron Victorian radiators behind the Dining Hall and restored them. The salvaged radiators from Hare were not original or particularly in keeping. We were absolutely delighted when these ornate radiators, probably from the old Maths and English Block, were found. They add yet another layer of history to the building.’’ Modern and elegant new lighting throughout the building serves the spaces, and dynamically showcase the original heritage, adding warmth and ambience. Mr McLachlan says he is proud of the work that has gone into the exacting restoration of the building with the strong emphasis on retaining all the heritage features. “So much of the building has had to be deconstructed, then put together again. We knew, in the end, we would be judged on how well everything fit back together. It is a tribute to the stonemasons, joiners, french polishers and roofers, who have worked so painstakingly to get things right that it looks so good, and the devotion to detail has so clearly paid off.’’
tensioning technology. The heavy masonry walls were drilled from the eaves all the way down to the foundations to make this possible. The other behind-the-scenes work was the deconstruction of the walls. The internal brick skin to the east facade was removed brick by brick and propped with heavy steel frames from the quadrangle holding everything together. A new concrete sheer wall was then poured in place of the old internal brick then tied back to the stonework. This painstaking work is now completely concealed either by internal solid plaster or reinstated wall panelling. Everything down to light switches, the radiators and the electrical fittings has been authentically recreated.
done is largely concealed from view,’’ he says. “Extensive and careful internal deconstruction also included the removal of the staircase, landing and entire ground floor. Most of the earthquake strengthening has been concealed and the building is one of the first in Christchurch to benefit from innovative and ingenious post-
College Issue 29 2015
69
Made with FlippingBook Online newsletter maker