Located in central Christchurch, this project brings together a wide range of services for young people within a single development, combining support facilities and accommodation. Developed through a co-design process with local young people, the project responded directly to their concerns about climate change, making environmental performance a key driver of design decisions. As New Zealand’s first integrated youth-services hub of its kind, the project demonstrates how structural engineers can achieve environmental objectives and positive community outcomes.
Developed through an extensive co-design process with local young people, this project demonstrates how structural engineering can contribute to meaningful social outcomes. The resulting timber building responds directly to user needs, providing integrated support, housing and community services in a welcoming environment. The structural strategy uses an efficient grid, modest spans and low-carbon materials to reduce resource use while maintaining flexibility. A great example of collaboration between engineers, stakeholders and future users, showing how technical decisions can support wellbeing, sustainability and long-term community benefit.