Auckland’s 3 Te Kehu Way Building: Pioneering Sustainable Design

In the heart of Auckland’s Sylvia Park, a beacon of innovation rises, setting new standards in sustainable design and community integration. The 3 Te Kehu Way (3TKW) building has proudly clinched the prestigious 6 Star Green Star Design and As-Built certified rating from the New Zealand Green Building Council. This accolade cements its status as a trailblazer in eco-conscious architecture.

Unveiled to the public in March last year, 3TKW stands tall with six levels of meticulously crafted office space, gracefully perched atop a verdant brick podium spanning 5,800 square meters. Nestled within a sprawling 24-hectare precinct that boasts the Sylvia Park Shopping Centre, this architectural marvel is strategically located just 10 kilometers south of Auckland’s bustling CBD.

What sets 3TKW apart is not just its imposing structure, but its thoughtful design ethos. Drawing inspiration from local ecology, the building serves as a testament to harmony between urban development and nature. Reflective glass ‘rivers’ cascade down its façade, mirroring the flow of a gentle stream, while the ground floor envelops occupants in hues of lush green, reminiscent of the area’s former pūriri broadleaf forest ecosystem.

Delving deeper into its architectural intricacies, 3TKW boasts a waffle façade crafted from precast concrete, adorned with a grid geometry that marries square and cruciform punched shapes. This intricate design not only captivates the eye but also enhances structural integrity. The incorporation of spandrel windows, coupled with color-changing LED lighting, adds a dynamic dimension to the building’s exterior, creating a mesmerising interplay of light and shadow.

Beyond its aesthetic allure, 3TKW stands as a paragon of sustainability. Equipped with a rooftop solar array, electric vehicle charging stations, and rainwater harvesting systems, it embraces eco-friendly practices with zeal. During its construction, over 92 percent of waste was diverted from landfills, underscoring a commitment to responsible resource management.

Matthew Pieterse, the visionary leader behind 3TKW’s architectural prowess at Woods Bagot, emphasises the transformative impact of achieving a 6-star rating. He believes that such certifications not only recognise excellence but also inspire industry-wide innovation and resilience.

Owned by developer Kiwi Property, 3TKW was brought to life through a collaborative effort. Woods Bagot and Peddlethorp lent their design expertise, while Boffa Miskell curated the landscape architecture. Head contractor Naylor Love oversaw construction, implementing innovative safety measures to minimise risks and streamline processes.

From its inception, 3TKW has captured the imagination of the community. Children from a neighboring daycare center eagerly await the sight of the tower crane, a symbol of progress and possibility. With its commitment to sustainability and community engagement, 3TKW stands as a beacon of hope, paving the way for a greener, brighter future in Auckland’s skyline.