The Generator-Waring Taylor Street, Wellington

SUMMARY

The Iconic Generator Building, a prominent landmark in Wellington's CBD, underwent significant redevelopment and seismic upgrade. Acclaimed Architects Warren and Mahoney transformed this structure for their visionary clients Precinct Properties, who had recognised the demand for more workspaces and meeting rooms in central Wellington.

Newton Specialist Contractor Riteway Waterproofing played a crucial role in the refurbishment project, addressing water infiltration issues within the basement.

THE PROJECT

The building's heritage status, proximity to the Wellington waterfront on reclaimed land, and its location in a high earthquake risk zone had to be considered when designing a suitable waterproofing system. As the purpose of this underground space was high-end commercial space that had been architecturally designed then water penetration of any kind was not acceptable.

After considering all of the above, two forms of waterproofing were recommended and installed.

THE SPECIFICATION

The first form of waterproofing was the application of the Newton 403 Hydrobond Tanking membrane to the walls. This intelligent hydrophilic self-healing membrane was then covered with a layer of concrete. As the concrete cured, the membrane’s locking fleece is fully encapsulated into the newly poured concrete, becoming fully engaged to prevent water tracking and provide a fully bonded Type A Tanking layer.

The second form of waterproofing was the fail-safe and fully maintainable, Cavity Drain Membrane System - Newton System 500. This system depressurises ground water, then captures it and safely drains the ingressing water away from the building. By installing Newton 508 membrane with strategically placed Newton MultiPlug fixings, the system once installed offers flexibility and reversibility, remaining sympathetic to the historic structure beneath. Newton Basedrain was also installed to channel captured water to a dedicated sump and pump system, where it can be safely removed quickly and efficiently away from the property.

THE RESULT

This award-winning project now provides premium commercial space. Its impeccable design, flawless installation, and reliable Newton System 500 water management solution ensure it remains completely dry for the life of the building. The project architect’s Warran and Mahoney received many awards for this project, including 2022 Property Council New Zealand Awards for two Best in Category Awards – Commercial Office Property and Heritage and Adaptive Reuse. Such a privilege for Newton Systems to be part of this iconic refurbishment.