Features
Each Build offers in-depth insights into two topics of interest to the building and construction industry.
Feature section: Building compliance
New Zealand’s building control system is performance based, and there are many ways of meeting the performance requirements. We look at some alternative paths and how to ensure selected building products are fit for purpose.
Feature section: Climate action
The government is moving to transition New Zealand to a low-carbon economy, as weather-related events increase damage to property and insurance costs look set to rise in coastal areas. BRANZ is in on the action looking for solutions to the impact of climate change.
Feature section: Building quality
The perceived lack of quality of our buildings, both inside and outside the industry, occupies plenty of minds. Is it due to shoddy workmanship? What role does the designer play? Should homeowners be more demanding? We tease out some answers.
Feature section: Exteriors and interiors
Not only are the colours and claddings used in buildings changing, but the functions of things like paints are growing. We look at these and ask whether E2/AS1 needs updating so the design solutions better reflect today’s living trends.
Feature section: Medium-density housing
As councils move to raise limits on medium-density housing in urban environments, plenty of work is needed at research and regulatory levels around factors such as fire ratings and noise levels.
Feature section: The future is now
It’s hard to keep track of where technology is taking us. It moves so fast, and the new frontiers of artificial intelligence and robotics are already knocking on the construction industry’s door. It’s time to embrace the changes.
Articles in this section
Feature section: Cleaning up
Construction and demolition waste dominates all rubbish at landfills. There are calls for the industry to reduce this. One way is at the very beginning of a building’s life cycle – during its design.
Articles in this section
Feature section: Seismic learnings
Earthquake engineering knowledge, technology and regulations continue to evolve, particularly following the damage and loss of life from the Canterbury and Kaikoura quakes.
Feature section: Grand designs
It's not size or flashiness that makes a home or building grand. The essential factor it must have is quality in design, functionality and the build standard.
Articles in this section
Feature section: National Science Challenges
Major research projects are under way as part of the National Science Challenges. These are focusing on significant issues that matter most to New Zealanders, including building better homes, towns and cities.
