2 September 2025
Christchurch has opened the doors to its new Court Theatre, a landmark project that showcases innovation in both design and construction. Among its standout features is the integration of the Batten & Cradle™ acoustic floor system—a solution that exemplifies excellence in timber construction and acoustic engineering.
A Purpose-Built Cultural Hub
Located at the corner of Colombo and Gloucester Streets, the three-storey Court Theatre anchors the city’s Performing Arts Precinct, joining cultural institutions like the Isaac Theatre Royal and The Piano. Designed by Haworth Tompkins in collaboration with Athfield Architects, the building is purpose-built to support a thriving arts community, with dedicated spaces for performance, education, and backstage production.
Timber Meets Acoustic Innovation
One of the key challenges in mass timber construction is achieving high acoustic performance without compromising the aesthetic appeal of exposed timber. The Batten & Cradle™ system addresses this by enabling acoustic components to be installed above the timber panels, preserving the visual warmth of the timber ceilings below. This system enhances both impact and airborne sound isolation—an essential feature for performance venues where sound quality is paramount.
Technical Specifications of the Batten & Cradle™ System
Acoustic Performance
- Reduces both impact and airborne sound transmission
- Independently tested and BRANZ appraised to meet NZ and Australian acoustic standards
Sustainable Materials
- Made from recycled rubber waste and sustainably grown timber
System Components
- Includes cradles, battens, acoustic insulation, and flooring panels
- Adjustable cradle heights for uneven substrates
Structural Integrity
- Engineered for load-bearing capacity and long-term durability
- Suitable for both new builds and refurbishments
Design Flexibility
- Compatible with concrete and timber substrates
- CAD blocks and technical drawings available for architectural integration
Certifications
- BRANZ Appraised
- Compliant with Building Product Information Requirements (BPIR)
A Quiet Contribution to a Bold Vision
The Batten & Cradle™ system was selected for the Court Theatre’s main auditorium and studio theatre to ensure optimal acoustic performance while aligning with the project’s sustainability and design goals. Its installation marks a significant milestone in delivering a world-class venue that is both acoustically tuned and architecturally inspiring.
Opened in May 2025, the new Court Theatre stands as a beacon for creativity, community, and the arts in Ōtautahi Christchurch. For designers seeking acoustic excellence in multi-level commercial and residential projects, the Batten & Cradle™ system offers the ultimate confidence.
WoodWorks Issue – 02 Sep 2025
Welcome
Greetings from your WoodWorks team. Australia’s largest wooden beams have been installed over the Adelaide Aquatic Centre, marking a major milestone in the $135m project, which remains on track to open this summer.
Christchurch has opened its new Court Theatre, featuring the innovative Batten & Cradle™ acoustic floor system, designed to enhance acoustic performance while preserving the aesthetic appeal of exposed timber.
How green are our European colleagues eh! With these multi-storey carparks in mass timber, who wants to go into the office, just work from your car!
Hybrid work models, biophilic design, and carbon impact, are exemplified by RIOS’s 42XX development which prioritizes flexible spaces and sustainable materials.
The Portland International Airport in Oregon recently celebrated its first anniversary. Not long after it was announced it was recognised as one of the world’s most beautiful airports. Of course being the only one with wood at its heart, it is top of any masstimberer’s list!
Registrations are open for our national WoodWorks Conference, 4-5 November in Rotorua. Sign up now to receive the Super Early Bird rate.
2 September 2025
Big country, big beams: Austrian beams for an Adelaide Pool
Australia’s largest wooden beams, by weight and volume, have now been installed over the Adelaide Aquatic Centre designed by JPE Design Studio and Warren and Mahoney – a major milestone...
2 September 2025
Innovative Acoustic Flooring Elevates Christchurch’s New Court Theatre
Christchurch has opened the doors to its new Court Theatre, a landmark project that showcases innovation in both design and construction. Among its standout features is the integration of the...
2 September 2025
A multi-storey car park in timber
The heating manufacturer Hargassner takes sustainability seriously: the new multi-storey car park at the site in Weng i. I. is a bold step towards CO2 reduction in infrastructure buildings. WIEHAG...
2 September 2025
Mass timber builds a better workday
The past five years have marked some of the biggest shifts in corporate culture. With the rise of hybrid and non-linear work models, employers, developers, and even investors are rethinking...
2 September 2025
Wood WINS again
The massive mass timber expansion at the Portland International Airport in Oregon recently celebrated its first anniversary. Not long after it was announced it was recognised as one of the...
2 September 2025
And one to end on… Children say the darndest things
I was visiting my son and daughter-in-law last night when I asked if I could borrow a newspaper. “This is the 21st century, old man,” he said. “We don’t waste...