NZ Fire Doors supplied fire rated doors and windows for the award-winning Marion Hostel in Wellington, helping to achieve the required fire ratings while ensuring a light and airy space.
Sam Brown from architects Foster+Melville explains the design intent for the interior: "A central “spine” model was implemented, where all bedrooms, bathroom facilities and common areas were accessed off a building-length hallway which was linked vertically by a beacon stairwell; bright, light and inviting, this feature element is the crux of the hostel's interactive space."
The use of the windows contributed to the success of the space. "The permeability of these areas, made possible by the use of characterised fire rated timber windows and doors, is the real success in creating a light, bright and social atmosphere," says Sam.
NZ Fire Doors provided the 30min timber fire rated doors and windows for the hallway. The glass used in the doors and windows is Schott Pyranova 15mm multi-laminate. The exceptional clarity of this glass is all the more amazing given the multiple intumescent interlayers required to prevent excessive heat transfer in event of a fire.
While Foster and Melville choose a smaller patchwork of windows in the stairwell, NZ Fire Doors glass panel sizes are approved up to 3000 x 1800mm in 30min fire rated timber frames. Whether as internal toplites, sidelights or a partition of framed panels, the NZ Fire Door fire rated window gives designers the option to open up spaces traditionally closed off with fire rated walls.