Manawa Bay Project: A Masterpiece of Custom Craftsmanship by Featurecraft
At Featurecraft, we pride ourselves on blending technical precision with custom craftsmanship, and few projects highlight this better than Manawa Bay. From expansive, meticulously crafted grid ceilings to bespoke skylights, the Manawa Bay project exemplifies Featurecraft’s ability to transform challenging visions into architectural realities. This project required a scale and complexity rarely encountered, and our team embraced the opportunity to go above and beyond, bringing a bold design to life with extraordinary attention to detail.
The Engineering Behind the Grid Ceiling
The custom grid ceiling was the heart of this project, spanning an impressive 1,463 square meters and weighing in at a total of 25.7 tonne. From the outset, this scale presented unique challenges: the original design resulted in a ceiling weight of 40 tonnes. To make the design feasible, our team innovatively reduced the overall weight by nearly half, creating hollow-core structures without sacrificing the visual impact or structural integrity of the ceiling.
Crafting each grid tile, which measured 3.6 by 1.8 meters, required precision and ingenuity, with angle cuts and reinforcing ensuring stability across the ceiling. Specialised jigs were crafted solely for this project to handle intricate saw cuts and assembly requirements, supporting Featurecraft’s dedication to getting every detail perfect. As Riley, a member of our architectural team, shared, “The scale and complexity were impressive, seeing it all come together to fit so precisely made this project a personal favourite.”
Collaboration Across Teams for Seamless Success
Manawa Bay also exemplified the power of collaboration. Featurecraft worked closely with leading partners, including Savory Construction, Metro Interiors, and the architecture firm Eclipse, using BIM models to ensure flawless alignment with the building’s broader architectural framework. This collaboration allowed us to meet complex technical requirements, including exacting fire sprinkler clearances and adherence to strict fire codes.
Our partnership with Savory Construction was especially meaningful. Known for their high-end joinery, the Savory team was particularly impressed with the grid ceiling’s quality, fit, and finish. Their feedback reflected their respect for our craftsmanship and precision: "The grid work fit perfectly—it's one of those moments that reinforces why Featurecraft is chosen for high-profile, complex projects." Recognition from such esteemed partners underscores our commitment to quality and strengthens our reputation within the industry.
A Sustainable Approach to Design
Featurecraft brought a strong commitment to sustainable practices to Manawa Bay, addressing environmental considerations at every stage. From selecting low-emission varnishes and eco-friendly coatings to sourcing fire-rated materials that met stringent safety standards, our team ensured the project aligned with the architects’ sustainability goals. This focus on eco-conscious design allowed us to minimize environmental impact while delivering the aesthetic and functional excellence our partners expected.
Bespoke Skylights and Custom Panels: Bringing the Vision to Life
The Manawa Bay project introduced exciting new design elements to Featurecraft’s portfolio. Bespoke skylights, crafted specifically for this project, required intricate routing and inlays of acrylic, creating beautiful and functional lighting that complements the space’s atmosphere. Additionally, extensive plywood applications across entryways and walls added texture and warmth to the space, all while preserving a polished, contemporary aesthetic. From the food and beverage areas to the back ceilings, thousands of meters of custom Featurecraft product contributed to creating a cohesive and inviting environment for visitors.
Craftsmanship Recognised
The Manawa Bay project is not just another success story for Featurecraft; it’s a showcase of what’s possible when technical expertise meets creative vision and close collaboration. Industry partners like Savory Construction and the entire project team expressed admiration for our work, a testament to the dedication and skill we bring to every project. Manawa Bay is more than an accomplishment—it’s a reflection of Featurecraft’s values and our commitment to pushing the boundaries of what custom craftsmanship can achieve.
We’re proud to share the full story of Manawa Bay, inspiring future endeavours that call for precision, collaboration, and a passion for creating spaces where people want to be. This project will remain a point of pride for Featurecraft, and we look forward to bringing our expertise to new challenges and ambitions.
