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Specialist ceilings and linings make a difference to Youth Hub Christchurch experience
Hush Interiors’ work on Youth Hub Christchurch goes beyond ceilings and linings that look and function well; the Autex paneling and bespoke ceilings they’ve completed offer youth privacy, confidentiality and the opportunity to truly make spaces their own!
Collaboration with Naylor Love and Autex Acoustics key
Hush became involved in the Youth Hub project through their strong relationship with main contractor Naylor Love and specialist knowledge of Autex products. They were able to creatively work with offcuts and donated Autex coverings to tailor solutions for the spaces in the interior fit-out plan, adding bursts of colour, confidentiality and softness to hui rooms and on-site supported living facilities for youth. Autex was also used as a feature on some ceiling areas, with precision essential in the tight and small decorative spaces.
Hush played a key role in working alongside Autex Acoustics, who generously donated and discounted product. Their long history of working with the product and team at Autex meant Hush could use what was available at low-cost highly effectively. The Hush team also offered discounted labour costs to support the Youth Hub to make the most of donated funding.
Bringing colour and versatility to youth spaces
Chair of the Youth Hub Trust, Dame Sue Bagshaw says that Hush Interiors’ interior fit-out work on stage one of the Youth Hub helps to protect the kōrero that service providers have with youth. It offers the confidentiality and customisation that young people have asked for in the unique hub.
“I can’t wait to see how youth use the spaces we’ve created. The Hush team have brought so much colour in with the Autex and it’s particularly special to have this on the walls in the supported housing facilities for youth. It’s versatile and can be used as a pinboard, allowing young people to make the spaces their own.”
Precision and creativity in ceiling work
The Hush team also completed the ceiling work throughout stage one of the build, some hidden in carefully designed gridwork beneath the GIB finish, and some highlighted with decorative paneling, angles, and light entering shared living spaces.
Collaborating closely with lead architect Field Studio and AY Consulting Engineers to ensure the ceilings and gathering spaces not only worked as desired, but gave a high-end finish, was essential to the success of the project.
The tight spaces in the ceilings were a particular challenge for Hush to overcome with the support of AY. A close, collaborative approach ensured that creative solutions were quickly developed, and the project could progress on time.
Working together key to success
General Manager Janine Branje says that collaboration has been the key to the project so far, which is fitting in a space that is designed to bring services together in one place for local youth.
The wrap-around services building will see key youth providers move in before Christmas. The supported housing wing will open in February 2025, together with an outdoor activity courtyard, which completes stage one. Next up is stage two: construction of the Events Centre.
Alongside discounted labour, Hush Interiors is also donating an e-bike to the centre for youth to utilise, generosity shown by many contractors and suppliers working on the Hub who have given everything from premium lighting to container loads of fit-out product.
The Youth Hub continues to fundraise to build another wing of supported housing and more communal spaces for young people. You can support the project and local Canterbury youth here: www.youthhubchch.org.nz/donate
Head Contractor: Naylor Love