Dunning Thornton has an un-matched reputation for innovation across a range of materials, structural forms and seismic technologies: we love the challenge of doing new things and wrapping our minds around new challenges.

Our projects and awards speak of where appropriate innovation (not innovation just for its own sake) has led to quality outcomes.

In the design process, this comes from teamwork: the ability to consider a wide range of options and then work with the team to quickly narrow down to those that will withstand a cost-benefit test.

Engineering is problem solving, but the smartest thinking comes in defining a clear brief along with potential problems and opportunities early in the process. 

For existing buildings, experience allows us to quickly understand a building’s strengths and weaknesses at a high level before extensive analysis.

For new designs, it is defining a clear “diagram” of how the building will work. Through these we can drive efficient engineering through careful positioning of structure, considering future flexibility, and maximising modularity and prefabrication where appropriate. 

We have extensive experience with the delivery of low-damage and mass-timber designs and so can help clients achieve the right level of customisation appropriate for the project.

Great buildings come out of a good design process.  We highly value the collaboration we have with our fellow designers, integrating structure with the architectural, services and fire requirements make clear, efficient buildings. 

We are known for contributions beyond our own discipline: the most efficient building may not just be the most efficient structure but one that solves all the design challenges together.

We have a highly customised Revit setup to speed everyday tasks and allow time for the skills of Drafting – producing good drawings.

We tailor the level of sophistication in our modelling to suit the project’s requirements: from fast, efficient and cost-effective models right through to complex geometry that used Dynamo mathematical scripts to enter and modify elements.

Construction is where it all happens.  We particularly enjoy this phase of the project where the buildability of our design gets confirmed. 

We have great relationships with all the major Contractors in Wellington (and beyond) and carry out temporary works designs for some, which keeps our pencils sharp.

We pride ourselves on bringing a practical problem-solving attitude to site.