St Kentigern Pre School
Educational

Aspec delivered the St Kentigern Preschool, a unique circular building of 24 uneven wedges designed to blend with its tree-lined setting, provide security, reduce noise, and maximise harbour views. The structure is expressed and raw, featuring exposed steel moment frames, Glulam beams, plywood soffits, and refined finishes such as stained cedar cladding, hardwood decking, tapered zinc roofing, and bespoke timber and stainless cabinetry. The complex geometry required precise set-out and detailing to achieve the architectural intent.

The project faced significant challenges, including Covid lockdown disruptions, sourcing heavy timber beams across the North Island, and global shipping delays for zinc roofing. Aspec responded with innovative procurement and temporary weatherproofing strategies to maintain programme and budget. Working within an active school campus demanded strict safety controls, sequenced deliveries, and adherence to an overarching Safety Charter. Despite these constraints, the preschool was completed to programme and delivered to an exceptional quality standard.

Client
Saint Kentigern Trust Board

Architect
Smith Architects

Completion Date
April 2022

Location
Shore Road, Remuera

Build Type
Education