Ironbank

Award-winning architecture that blends urban sophistication with functional design.

Project Overview

Ironbank is a 4500m², six-level mixed-use development located on Auckland’s iconic Karangahape Road. Designed by RTA Studio and commissioned by Samson Corporation, the complex features retail spaces, offices, and a state-of-the-art automated car stacker system capable of housing 96 cars.
Praised for its sophisticated integration into the urban environment, Ironbank has earned both local and international acclaim. The building’s design enhances Karangahape Road and its surrounding areas while setting a benchmark for sustainability and innovation in commercial architecture.
Chester Consultants was engaged to provide fire engineering services for Ironbank. Our team developed a fire engineering report and specific design that demonstrated sprinklers were not required in the basement car stacker or the main buildings, achieving safety compliance while maintaining cost efficiency.

Client

Samson Corporation

Location

Karangahape Road, Auckland CBD, New Zealand

Architect

RTA Studio

Completion Year

2009

Website

https://www.samson.co.nz/buildings/ironbank/

Project Details

Key Features

Five interconnected six-storey buildings comprising retail and office spaces.
Innovative automated car stacker system with a four-level storage wall.
Integrated design that complements the urban environment.

Services Provided by Chester

Fire Engineering

Notable Achievements

Recognised for its contribution to urban regeneration on Karangahape Road.
Praised for its innovative approach to sustainability and urban design.

Awards & Recognition

Ironbank has received numerous awards and recognition for its innovative design and sustainable approach:

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Awards Received

2010 NZIA New Zealand Architecture Medal — Winner
2010 NZIA New Zealand Architecture Award — Commercial Architecture
2010 NZIA New Zealand Architecture Award — Sustainable Architecture
2009 NZIA Auckland Architecture Award — Commercial Architecture
2009 NZIA Auckland Architecture Award — Sustainable Architecture
2009 NZIA Auckland Architecture Award — Urban Design
2009 Auckland City Council, Mayoral Award — Urban Design
2011 Property Council Awards — Merit
2010 Best Awards — Spatial/Built Environment, Gold

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Recognition Received

2010 World Architecture Festival — Highly Commended
2010 MPIM Future Project Awards — Highly Commended
2009 Metro — Best New Commercial Building
2009 Progressive Building — Best Commercial Project

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Recent Project Work

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