Arrowtown School

With the existing facilities reaching full capacity, BCN Architects was enlisted to design new buildings for Arrowtown Primary School. This expansion project not only aimed at meeting the practical needs to accommodate rising student numbers, but also sought to seamlessly integrate with the picturesque surroundings of Arrowtown.

"The design themes emphasised natural beauty and the unique surroundings of Arrowtown," says Brendon Haughey, Architectural Designer for BCN, "and we used materials, textures and patterns that harmonised with the idyllic and historical aspects of the township."

Installers Dennison Joinery used Melteca Aged Ash for the under-bench cupboards in the ‘maker spaces’ and in joinery items throughout.

"Our choice of Laminex was based on durability, functionality and of course aesthetics," says Brendon. "Additionally, each of the four main learning environments was to have a unique colour identity. So we used Laminex Formica Infinity, Melteca Caribbean, Melteca Juicy and Melteca Energise to inject bright tones into these spaces."

Architect: BCN Architects
Installers: Dennison Joinery
Products: Melteca Aged Ash, Caribbean, Juicy and Energise, Laminex Formica Infinity

Mairehau Primary School

With a focus on creating ‘calm’ learning environments, the refurbishment of Christchurch’s Mairehau Primary School used tonal colours from Melteca as a base for its interior design. 

"After the earthquakes, a lot of research went into the “stress” of the school environment," says architect Ursula Adams from BCN Architects. "We were guided by findings in the report Reducing Stress in Schools, which has a strong focus on colour."

The calm colours chosen feature shades of blues, greens, neutral greys, and natural timber finishes. Melteca Bayleaf, Seal Grey, and Raw Birchply on the joinery and Laminex Laminate Just Blue for benchtops contribute to a harmonious environment conducive to learning.

"We use Laminex time and time again," says Ursula. "It’s tried and true, with a good colour selection for education. And we’re able to tie the timber-look of Raw Birchply with pine plywood and skirtings to unify the whole design."

Along with BCN Architects, the project involved the established local joinery firm JB Joinery, and main contractor Hawkins Construction (Christchurch office).

Architect: BCN Architects
Joiner and Contractor: JB Joinery and Hawkins Construction
Products: Laminex Laminate Just Blue, Melteca Seal Grey, Raw Birchply and Bayleaf