The Manawa Bay project stands as a testament to Featurecraft’s ability to tackle ambitious, custom design challenges. The centrepiece of this project was the 1,463 square-meter grid ceiling, weighing a total of 25,700 kilograms. Each tile, spanning 3.6 by 1.8 meters, required innovative hollow-core construction to balance structural integrity and reduce weight by half, making the design both feasible and visually striking.
Collaboration was key, with Featurecraft working closely with Savory Construction, Metro Interiors, and Eclipse. Using BIM modelling, our team ensured precise alignment with architectural requirements, including fire code compliance and complex design adjustments. Savory Construction praised the grids for their flawless fit and exceptional craftsmanship, reinforcing Featurecraft’s reputation for delivering excellence.
Beyond the technical achievements, sustainability was central to the project. We utilised low-emission finishes, fire-rated materials, and eco-friendly coatings to meet environmental standards while maintaining the project’s aesthetic and functional goals.
Manawa Bay is more than a completed project - it’s a milestone in custom craftsmanship, innovation, and teamwork that showcases Featurecraft’s dedication to creating extraordinary spaces.
“We specified Featurecraft timber panels for the large retail project at Manawa Bay, for Auckland Airport. They provided excellent assistance during the design phase, with timber selection, panel design as well as installation details. They also put together mock-ups and samples which really helped us understand how the bespoke system would look and come together on site. During construction they also worked closely with the installation team, and the results are just fantastic. A real highlight of the project. Riley and his team are a pleasure to work with.”
Murray Denby, Registered Architect, Eclipse Architecture
