How to minimise imperfections in plasterboard walls and ceilings with well-considered design, installation and lighting.

A collaborative approach is needed to resolve conflicts between fire protection and seismic movement requirements for service penetrations passing through fire-rated walls.

The results of a simple experiment to demonstrate the value of well-fitted curtains.

Continuing from my previous blog and the question of design, I look at considerations for ensuring an effective waterproofing solution. 

The newly released Third Edition of the NZ BIM Handbook explains the benefits of BIM and best practice approach across the full asset lifecycle.

Lessons from the design of service penetrations through fire rated walls and floors on a recent high-density residential project. 

A truly resilient building needs to continue to provide core services in the event of a prolonged emergency or natural disaster. Domestic hot water is one of these services. 

As an incentive to sustainable housing, in mid-April the ANZ Bank announced that it is offering reductions to some of its interest rates and fees, subject to particular conditions, if the property being financed has a minimum Homestar rating of 6 stars.

The consultation is on proposals to improve the regulation of building products and methods, strengthen occupational regulation, look at how risk and liability are managed, reduce the building levy, and strengthen penalties for those who don’t comply with the law.

It is coming to be accepted that there is a personal and, to a lesser extent, a national benefit in having energy generation and water collection within the family home, but the conversation has not yet extended to applying this thinking to a co-operative community setting.