Architectural Profiles Limited (APL) needed to install a second powdercoating facility at their Te Rapa site to expand their capacity to coat aluminum extrusions. The new facility coats the profiles vertically which operates in a much more space efficient layout than the traditional horizontal powdercoating line. The new equipment fitted within the footprint of the existing building. However, the 12m high plant required raising a portion of the roof by 4m. New 14m high precast concrete walls now form a prominent corner to the building and identify the entry to the site. Concrete was chosen for its robustness and durability as well as the feeling of permanence that reflects the APL brand.
Date 2016
Location Hamilton, Waikato
A large area of structural glazed south facing facade provides natural light into the plant room and enables visibility of the powdercoating process from the street. The relatively clear high performance glass was chosen to provide visibility to the interior in contrast to the dark tint glass of the existing building.
The areas of glazing are framed in crisp white aluminium clad boxes lined with cedar that suggest a level of detail and quality. Internally walls are lined in plywood to add a feeling of warmth to an otherwise purely industrial interior.