The $38.6m Taiora QEII swimming complex and the new $92m Christchurch Central Library ‘Tūranga’ both used the 168mm thermally broken, structural glazed commercial system. This system allows developers to construct thermally efficient building facades that combine high-performance double glazing with an innovative aluminium framing system that minimises the transfer of hot and cold temperatures.

The split mullions for the 168mm Structural Glaze thermal system have glazing platforms formed from polyamide and these act as an effective thermal break when combined with a secondary TPV seal barrier.

Both projects were rebuilds of previous council facilities that were damaged during the February 2011 earthquake.

The QEII project, which was designed by Architecture HDT and Warren and Mahoney, was supplied by Vantage manufacturer Hagley Windows and Doors in Duratec Matt Ironsand powdercoat with solar control double glazing (Argon fill). The builders were Apollo Projects.

The designers for the Central Library project were Architectus in partnership with Danish library design experts Schmidt Hammer Lassen. The library is believed to be the most modern in the Southern Hemisphere and includes cutting-edge technology and features. Vantage manufacturer Alutech Architectural Window Systems installed the glazed facade, as well as a range of other products including box sun fins and windows from the 40mm Seismic Suite. The surface finish was Anodised Dark Bronze and the double glazing included Low-E and Argon fill. The builder was Southbase Construction.