The B201 redevelopment at the University of Auckland sets a benchmark for sustainable construction in New Zealand. Through adaptive reuse of an existing structure and the integration of low-carbon materials, the project has achieved the highest Green Star rating in the country.

Red Stag TimberLab played a key role in supporting the project’s low carbon ambitions by supplying and manufacturing the engineered timber elements that form the atrium’s striking glulam roof structure. Timber, as a renewable and carbon-sequestering material, was central to the project’s sustainability strategy.

Low carbon outcomes through engineered timber

The Glulam supplied by Red Stag TimberLab (202.63 m³) contributed an estimated carbon sequestration of 135 tonnes CO₂eq, directly supporting the building’s Green Star certification. By choosing mass timber over more carbon-intensive materials, the project significantly reduced its embodied carbon footprint.

Red Stag TimberLab's offsite construction approach further enhanced sustainability by minimising on-site waste and reducing transport emissions. Modules were pre-assembled at their Auckland facility and delivered efficiently to site, aligning with crane availability and installation schedules.

Precision manufacturing for sustainable performance

Using advanced CNC machinery and digital modelling, the Red Stag TimberLab team achieved millimetre-level accuracy across hundreds of components. This precision ensured minimal material waste and streamlined installation, reducing time and energy spent on site.

Early engagement with the design and construction teams enabled the prototyping and refinement of key connections, ensuring buildability and performance while maintaining tight tolerances, all of which contributed to a more efficient and low-impact construction process.

Beyond the structural elements, Red Stag TimberLab also supplied large cladding panels and cover plates, designed with thoughtful detailing to integrate lighting and services seamlessly. The result is a visually stunning atrium ceiling that reflects both design excellence and environmental responsibility.

B201 project awards

The B201 project has been widely recognised for its sustainable and adaptive design, receiving multiple awards including:

• 2024 New Zealand Architecture Awards – Education Award
• 2024 PCNZ Awards – Sustainable Building Property Award – Best in Category 
• 2024 PCNZ Awards – Education Property Award – Excellence 
• 2024 PCNZ Awards – Heritage and Adaptive Reuses Property Award – Excellence 
• 2024 NZIA Local Awards – Education Award 
• 2024 CTBUH Awards – Repositioning Award of Excellence 
• 2024 CTBUH Awards – Systems Award of Excellence

Results

Red Stag TimberLab’s expertise and engineered timber products enhanced project efficiency and simplified on-site installation with low-carbon design considerations. Their proficiency in engineered timber and offsite manufacturing supports clients in achieving sustainability goals without sacrificing quality or performance.