Auckland University of Technology | Auckland

AUT's sustainable and culturally integrated learning space.

Location: North Shore

Auckland University of Technology (AUT) embarked on a transformative project to create a new facility at its North Campus.

Named Tukutuku, this development aimed to house the Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences while setting new standards for sustainability and cultural integration in tertiary education buildings.

AUT faced the task of creating a large-scale, sustainable building that could accommodate a significant number of students and staff while also incorporating cultural elements and advanced environmental features.

To achieve this, AUT collaborated with various organizations, resulting in a 9,000 sqm building that seamlessly incorporates advanced sustainability features alongside significant cultural elements. The design emphasizes a 'passive first' approach, featuring enhanced insulation, adaptive reuse of existing structures, and extensive timber use to reduce carbon emissions. 

The facility is designed to accommodate approximately 2,000 students and 200 staff members. The space includes Trapeziod tables for flexible collaborative areas, alongside Frame Tables and Frame Leaners for casual interaction zones. Activate 2 Workstations with Privacy Screens and Zurich 5 Workstations cater to varied working needs.

Classrooms are equipped with versatile Sector 2 Tables, and Portone Task Chairs are used throughout. This thoughtful selection of furniture enhances the facility's functionality, supporting diverse learning and working styles in line with modern educational practices.

The implementation process involved a range of stakeholders, who contributed building services expertise. The project's journey began with a ceremonial blessing by Ngāti Paoa, marking a significant cultural moment.

Ultimately, Tukutuku transformed AUT's North Campus into a leading sustainable facility, significantly reducing environmental impact and fostering a rich learning environment.

This project exemplifies the importance of collaboration among educational institutions, industry experts, and cultural representatives, showcasing the potential for large-scale educational buildings to set new standards in contemporary architecture.

Furniture included

Portone Task Chairs, Trapeziod Tables, Frame Tables, Frame Leaners, Sector 2 Tables, Activate 2 Workstations, Privacy Screens and Zurich 5 Workstations.