Archives

Project Details

Fabric 1

Oztech Unit
Producer/Manufacturer: W Wiggins Ltd
Primary Use: Hardware/Findings

Fabrication Company
GS World / Wwiggins

Please describe the project specifications

This may be one of the smallest retractable roof systems we’ve installed, but without doubt, it stands out as one of the most technically complex. Situated on the second floor of a newly constructed home in a Christchurch hill suburb, the project presented several major challenges—ranging from difficult access to tight deadlines, custom engineering, and the retrofit nature of the installation.

The client approached us in November, seeking an outdoor room solution in time for their March wedding, where they planned to host pre-wedding gatherings at home. This created a non-negotiable and narrow window for design, fabrication, shipping, and installation.

To meet the brief, we worked closely with the client to design a fully retractable Oztech roof system with an integrated oversized motorised blind along the 6-metre opening. The system needed to be retrofitted into a completed space that included a glass balustrade and cladding not designed to carry the load of the structure. The only viable option for post supports was to custom-design marine-grade stainless steel posts that would bolt into the base channels of the balustrade. In a bold move to meet the timeline, we proceeded to order the roof system and the custom posts simultaneously—without waiting for post fit-off—requiring absolute accuracy in both fabrication and planning.

Access posed another hurdle. The skin and components of the roof system were too large to be brought through the home, so they had to be lifted over the balustrade from outside, adding further pressure to an already complex install.

Despite these constraints, we successfully completed the roof installation and three motorised external blinds the day before the first guests arrived, with our team finishing up just an hour before the event began. The outcome was a sleek, high-performance outdoor living space that looked like it had always been part of the original design.

The client was absolutely thrilled—not only did the space serve its purpose during the wedding events, but it’s since become one of their favourite parts of the home. They’ve since engaged us to return and expand on the setup now that they’ve lived with it and seen its potential.

What is unique or complex about the project?

We entered this project because it represents a rare blend of design complexity, tight deadlines, and precise execution—all under significant pressure. What sets it apart is the combination of high-stakes timing (due to the client’s wedding), second-floor installation challenges, and the need to design custom stainless steel posts and a retractable roof structure in parallel. Unlike other jobs, every element had to be right the first time. The outcome was not just functional, but elegant and deeply appreciated by the client.

Content is submitted by the participant. ATA is not responsible for the content descriptions of the IAA award winners.