The building features outstanding architecture and combines a
variety of Firth's products from GreenCrete® concrete
(containing recycled aggregate and flyash), Self Compacting Concrete
(used in the 11+ high waterfall in the entrance) and a variety of
aggregates and pavers creating fabulous and funky zones around the
new campus.
"Having a number of designers involved in this large dynamic
project - Warren and Mahoney, Mansergh Graham, and Maunsell - has
allowed a variety of Firth product to be show cased," says Alison
Durning, Customer Development Representative for Firth. "Innovative
styling has created a central location to be enjoyed by a wide
number of people."
Walkway pavers used in a grey blend of
colours with bush hammered texture - black sands, graphite and
natural - emulates a river bed theme along an extensive pathway
throughout the University.
Six metre long pre cast panels, with groove detailing on their
surface, have been used as modern stepping stones in the reflection
pool. The water in this area is recycled and features a two metre
waterfall featuring 19mm Awarua aggregate concrete. Boulevard
pavers in chocolate brown and cream sands have been combined
with Awarua pebble exposed aggregate concrete which also includes
Firth element oxide - Thunder cloud.
Exposed aggregate with a band of large polished river stones
creates additional interest to the dry river bed theme in this part
of the grounds. "Tony Brown and the team at Fletcher Construction
have done an amazing job at bringing together the various designs
using our products," adds Alison. "It's a very impressive
facility."
Art and concrete combine
After 4 years the new student services building at the University of Waikato is now finished - officially opened by Prime Minister, John Key in November last year. The project is the first educational building in New Zealand to attain the 5-star green design rating.






