Following a decision to rebuild rather than refurbish ageing classroom blocks on the school’s Hawera campus, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Palmerston North engaged Architect People to design new buildings equipped to meet today’s learning needs and tomorrow’s growth. 

From the outset, the design team intentionally set out to create a strong but light timber-framed solution – and Prolam’s engineered timber solutions played a central role in achieving that vision. 

The brief called for ten new primary teaching spaces and support facilities with the capacity for future expansion. Two new classroom blocks – one for junior students and one for middle and senior levels – were positioned along the site boundaries. Deep roof overhangs extend to the north and west, creating shelter walkways and outdoor learning areas, while peaked gable roof forms mark key entrances and reflect both the school’s special character and local cultural narratives. 

Exposed timber was integral to the architectural concept and Architect People’s quest for a structural solution that balanced economy and sustainability. Working closely with structural engineers Nagel Consultants, selections were made to meet the engineering design requirements, including elements subject to Specific Engineering Design (SED). 

According to Jeff from Architect People, Prolam’s product range, available and accessible technical information gave the team confidence in specifying the glulam solution. 

Prolam 630 x 135 and 360 x 135 Visual PL12 H3.2 Beams and 88 x 88 PL12 H5 Posts for the exposed structural members beneath the generous overhangs. The engineered timber provides the required load-bearing capacity and structural reliability, while delivering the straightness and visual finish needed for visible architectural elements. 

For the builders, Clelands Construction, the use of glulam supported a carpentry-focused build with a high level of repetition. Fewer sub-trades were required, contributing to an efficient and cost-effective construction program. Compared to alternative structural systems, the timber solution also delivered a lower embodied carbon outcome – aligning with Architect People’s and the school’s commitment to sustainable building design.

The completed buildings have been warmly received by the client. More than just new classrooms, St Joseph’s School now benefits from contemporary learning environments – supported by structural timber that will perform for generations to come. 

“Exposing, shaping and building up structural members was integral to our design concept. The use of Prolam glulam assisted the main contractor to deliver a cost-effective, quality product. ”
-    Jeff Salisbury, Architect People

Images courtesy of Sandra Henderson Photographer.