The untold story of New Zealand's mass timber revolution unfolds as architectural designer Bernie from RM Designs and structural engineer Julian from ENGCO share their remarkable 10-year journey pioneering sustainable construction methods. What began as a response to the challenges of post-earthquake Christchurch has evolved into over 50 successful projects that demonstrate how thoughtful collaboration can transform an industry.

Their partnership reveals a refreshing counterpoint to the stereotypical architect-engineer rivalry. Instead, they've embraced a "no one of us is as smart as all of us" philosophy that brings contractors, manufacturers, and consultants to the table from day one. This early collaboration has been their secret weapon, allowing them to optimize designs for constructability while solving complex problems around acoustics, fire safety, and structural efficiency in mass timber buildings.

The conversation takes us through their breakthrough project—the Bealey Backpackers—where they reduced foundation costs from 20% to just 7-8% of the budget by leveraging timber's lightweight properties. We hear how their work with Housing New Zealand became a watershed moment, as they meticulously documented mass timber's advantages against traditional construction across more than 20 performance indicators. From three-story walk-ups completed in just 8.5 months to innovative projects like the Pounamu Pathway with its distinctive "America's Cup sail" design, their work spans everyday residential buildings to iconic cultural landmarks.

What makes this episode particularly valuable is their honest assessment of challenges facing mass timber adoption. Despite proven successes, every project still requires alternative solution documentation due to building code limitations. They've also evolved from timber purism to embrace hybrid approaches that pragmatically combine materials for optimal performance. Their parting wisdom? Understanding manufacturing capabilities from the outset is crucial—know what can be built before designing it.

Whether you're an architect, engineer, builder, or simply passionate about sustainable construction, this conversation offers invaluable insights from pioneers who've learned through trial and error so you don't have to. Ready to rethink how we design and construct buildings? This episode is your masterclass.

About RM Designs
47 Springfield Rd
(cnr Springfield & Clare Rd)
Christchurch
New Zealand

Phone
Ph: (03) 354 6341

E-mail
info@rmdesigns.co.nz

About ENGCO

ENGCO is a multi-disciplinary national consultancy with expertise delivering large scale projects, worth in excess of $100 million, and at the boutique end of the market, individual solutions for one-off domestic builds. The core of our business is in structural, civil and geotechnical engineering services, and we also have Green Star approved professional accreditation for our involvement with sustainable energy projects.

Our key values: Passion, Principles and People.

Website

https://www.engco.co.nz/

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