The structural system utilizes 862.58m³ of Carter Holt Harvey LVL timber in a diagrid configuration with 500mm thick members at approximately 18-19° angles. Steel nodes with engineer-specified bolting enable complete disassembly for seismic resilience and end-of-life reuse. Horizontal stabilizing beams (500×1000mm) support CLT floor panels through the TATE raised floor system, creating service distribution while maintaining the structure's inherent flexibility.
The building envelope integrates performance with narrative through layered assemblies: 5mm aluminum bulkheads mounted to the diagrid frame create the primary weather barrier, while 30/30 aluminum grating at 1134mm intervals forms a maintenance walkway and passive ventilation system. The roof assembly combines XLAM NZ 5-ply panels with 110mm Thermaroof TR27 insulation beneath white TPO membrane. Atlas A1 curtain wall systems (3300×3000mm) with double-glazed Low-E coating provide thermal performance while maintaining visual connections between laboratory spaces and public areas, completing the technical expression of the kete as both container and revelation.
