Your immediate reaction when you enter 14thLane is that you have been transported into a New York city centre hotel. The building owners had a very clear vision to transform a simple heritage building in downtown Blenheim into a modern and contemporary establishment, with stylistically curated details and finishes.

Neil Hunt, of Hunt Construction in Marlborough, was taken on as project manager and head of construction. With over 40 years in the building trade, Neil was chosen for his reputation and experience, and in particular to the renovation of historic properties, as well as new builds, renovations and commercial properties. From the hand-poured concrete floor in the lobby, to the distinctive alcoves that were all part of the original building, careful attention was taken to honour the buildings 1940’s architecture. Original steelwork still exists as well as extensive earthquake strengthening, following the Kaikoura Earthquake in 2016. Neil was able to navigate the challenges faced on a project like this, in particular to laying foundations and renovating that could not encroach on original precast structures and foundations. In essence, the building has been interlaced and woven together to create what is now an invigorated and eco conscious building, and one which went on to earn Hunt Construction a silver award in recognition of excellence at the 2022 NZ Commercial Projects Awards.

With creating a sustainable environment being forefront to the project, Neil and his team set about building an internal timber frame inside the existing concrete walls, thus creating the ability to square up all walls and ceilings, and at the same time enabling thermal and acoustic insulation to the highest standard. This combined with the fitting of new double-glazed windows, the insulation of all internal walls and ceilings and a double insulated hung ceiling between floors has resulted in a well-insulated and peaceful space located in the heart of the CBD

Inverter Mitsubishi heat pumps provide efficient heating and cooling, the Lossnay heat exchange air circulation system always provides fresh air while minimising power consumption, and extraction units in all bathrooms guarantee additional air circulation. All operational extraction units and water cylinders are housed in the ceiling space above the first floor, with a central walkway created for easy access for servicing and elevated cable tracking for all power and internet cabling. Allowance has also been made to facilitate future solar installations.

This refurbishment project is a good example of how careful planning and the right team to do the job, can result in an economically viable and sustainable building, built on time and within budget.

Words by Vicki Young - 14thLane Urban Hotel