Sir Gil Simpson Drive (C) Tuatara Header first-digit second-digit

Early Involvement & Smart Aluminium Joinery for
Commercial Façades 

Project name

Sir Gil Simpson Drive

Category

Commercial

Location

Christchurch, Canterbury

The client

Tuatara Structures & M Three 

This commercial office development on Sir Gil Simpson Drive in Christchurch was designed to make a bold architectural statement while keeping energy efficiency and occupant comfort front of mind. Built by Tuatara Structures and designed by M Three the project featured a large glazed façade and called for expert input early on to ensure performance matched aesthetics & H1 requirements. 

This project demonstrates the immense value of early involvement with UNO to solve unique thermal and design challenges while keeping in mind the client's desired aesthetic & budget. 

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Scope

Early Engagement for Façade Performance 

With a façade made up largely of glass, our client needed a joinery partner who could assist with thermal performance, suggest solutions to reduce an overheating risk and review installation details for efficient manufacturing & installation in line with project timelines. 

UNO Windows & Doors was brought in early, assisting during specification and detailing stages to assist with occupant comfort and provide a seamless manufacturing & installation process. 

How does UNO help you comply with H1 Requirements?

Sir Gil Drive Gallery (3)
Sir Gil Drive Gallery (4)
Sir Gil Drive Gallery (1)

Solution

Building Solutions with UNO Commercial & Innovative Delivery

UNO is supplying 16 window and door units, working closely with the architect and builder to deliver a clean, modern façade using the UNO 150mm Flush glaze Commercial Suite, scheduled for installation by UNO’s in-house team. 

Our involvement begins well before fabrication. The UNO team works alongside the project team to: 

  • Review and provide suggestions on window construction details 
  • Provide glass performance suggestions to reduce solar gain in order to provide a comfortable office environment. 
  • Supply specific construction R-value calculations for the façade to support the H1 engineer with compliance. 

By using Clear Low E Performatech Double Glazing, the façade benefits from improved insulation and reduced solar heat gain, without sacrificing light or clarity. 

UNO’s Matt Black powdercoat finish was also selected, complementing modern commercial design trends for a timeless aesthetic. 

Delivered with Confidence

UNO's team will also be handling installation, ensuring consistency across the design-to-delivery process and maintaining quality on site. 

Key Outcomes:

  • Early involvement ensured that buildability, compliance, and thermal performance were considered from the outset 
  • Glass specification reduced overheating risk in a highly glazed office façade 
  • Full supply and install package delivered with 16 commercial aluminium joinery units 

Contact Us to Experience Efficiency in Every Aspect.

Photos supplied by Tuatara Structures

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Window & door units
For this project, UNO will be manufacturing and delivering 16 aluminium window and door units. A combination of Flushglaze panels, automatic sliding doors, and hinge doors to suit the professional design needs of the commercial development.
Matt black powdercoat
Matt Black Powdercoat
The Matt Black Powdercoat finish, a popular key colour in UNO’s aluminium joinery range, provides a modern and sleek aesthetic. This durable and low-maintenance finish aligns perfectly with the project vision, offering long-lasting protection against New Zealand's diverse weather conditions.
UNO Icons x11 White RGB_Low E Glass-1-1
Clear Low E Performatech Double Glazing
All windows and doors are being supplied with advanced Low E Performatech Glass with Double Glazing, enhancing thermal insulation, energy efficiency, and clarity. This innovative glass solution creates a healthier, more comfortable environment for occupants, meeting H1 energy compliance standards.
Commercial - White
UNO 150m Commercial Flushglaze Suite
Ideal for large-scale commercial facades. The UNO Commercial 150mm Flushglaze suite is selected for clean sightlines and strength.

Featured products

A variety of window and door configurations were used across this project


We can align fabrication with your project timelines to meet your install schedules and create a seamless build from start to finish.

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