Acland House contains boarding and dining facilities for Christchurch Girls’ High School. Built in 1893, it sustained severe damage in the Canterbury Earthquakes. In addition to seismic strengthening, the ground floor was redesigned to create a dining hall with the capacity to cater for 150 boarders at once. The dormitories and bathrooms were completely renovated. A new porch was added to emphasise the main entry. Historic elements were salvaged and reused.

A few words from our client:

“From the beginning of the project the collaboration between the school and Dalman was positive. Dalman were always accommodating. They listened carefully to the school’s needs, communicated purposefully and throughout the project were always pleasant and professional in manner. We found them to be proactive and helpful especially during the construction stage.

Further, Dalman were aware of the tight budget constraints the school needed to work under but nevertheless delivered a stylish finished product that met the needs of the brief in a cost effective manner. Acland retained its character and charm but is a fully functioning boarding environment suitable for the needs of 21st Century teenagers.”

Pauline Duthie, Principal, Christchurch Girls' High School