Diocesan School for Girls

Chapel & St Barnabas Seismic upgrade

About the Project

Aspec delivered the seismic strengthening and heritage restoration of the Chapel of Our Glorified Lord and St Barnabas at Diocesan School for Girls. The project strengthened both buildings to 100% New Building Standard (NBS) while carefully preserving the heritage character, architectural features, and historic materials that make the chapel precinct so significant. Delivered within a live school environment, the works required close collaboration between the client, consultants, heritage specialists, and construction team.

The complex strengthening works included the introduction of new structural systems, staged demolition and reconstruction, and bespoke temporary support solutions to protect significant heritage elements throughout construction. Original materials including Welsh slate roofing, kauri flooring, timber framing, leadlight windows, and heritage detailing were carefully restored and reinstated, ensuring the buildings retain their historic character while meeting modern performance standards.

Awards

Winner – Auckland Heritage Award, Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects Auckland Architecture Awards 2026

Client
Diocesan School for Girls

Architect
Creative Arch Architects & Salmond Reed Architects

Completion Date
October 2025

Location
Margot Street, Epsom

Build Type
Education, Heritage, Seismic & Reclad