The Rocks
This recently completed project was built in four modules, comprising two residential units located on a highly complex site at Queenstown Hill.
The journey started in mid 2024 with a site visit that had the team @Fabric Architecture, Modulo and clients Hans & Suzy. We all quickly realised that The Rocks would be a challenging yet fun project to get involved with.
By the end of the site meeting someone suggested that this one could be a Grand Designs sort of project… the rest is history.
Modulo lead the project’s construction from end to end through its solid team of subcontractors.
Modular construction stage started in our Cromwell yard on late 24’, while the Excavation and further Onsite works were carried out from June 25’ onwards. Project’s practical completion was achieved on May 26’. This means less than one year since Modulo cracked into the site.
Stage 1 - Modular construction
The modular stage required of some specific set up in our yard. We installed level steel rails and layed several load skates within these rails before construction of the units started. This was a key that allowed to build all four modules following the same layout they would be placed onsite.
The alternated pitches of the modules reached 5+ mts height to both sides, which left almost no gap between the trusses of our shelter/canopy and the roof of the modules.
The rails and skates allowed the modules to be dragged out of the shelter, then be loaded onto trucks using toe jacks powered by a jacking plant.
All carpentry and subcontractors works were completed on time and budget. Modules were delivered to site in two stages at a high degree of completion.
Inside the Process of The Rocks
Stage 2 - Onsite works
The excavation was particularly challenging, as it required further breaking due to the condition of the rock as per advice from geotechnical and structural engineers. Around Five Hundreds trucks loads were needed to remove the loose material from both the garage area and the upper site where the modules and deck areas are now located. Dealing with the right contractors and consultants was key.
Foundations and Blockwork for the lift shafts required of precision from our Surveyor , and quality workmanship from our great Builders and Block layers. With part of the project being build Offsite, there is no tolerance for mistakes at the Onsite front.
Modules were delivered to site in October 25’ and February 26’. Then vast scaffolding and fall protection systems were rapidly installed and often shifted within the site to keep up with works in progress.
All logistic operations went perfect with Transportation, Pilot vehicle crews, massive Cranes and our Onsite Teams that managed to assemble the modules onto the steel piles at millimetre level in record time. These were Critical milestones.
Following the same construction methodology than with the modules, our Steel engineers pre fabricated, transported and assembled the big structures that formed the Stairwell, walkways, decks, and beyond with commitment and positive attitude.
Driveway wasn’t your easiest either, as road levels and ground falls played a role.
The installation of two super stylish vacuum lifts, an expansive Purple Heart decking area and Glass Balustrades were completed in just a few days!
Finally, our Deadline of 8th May 26’ with Grand Designs crew and Client was met. Mission accomplished, thanks to our Amazing Team that delivered to their best ability to get there.
GALLERY
Summary: The Rocks was one of those projects that you want to get involved to raise your professional bar and pride. By the time you realise the process will require of most of your time, brains and guts, then it’s too late to pull out :)
It was really a great learning curve with lots of fun all along the project. Making the right decisions was critical to get there. Once again, thanks to our clients for the opportunity.
Reach out to discuss your next project with us. We’d love to hear from you.
