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Insulated Concrete Form (ICF)

ICF construction uses interlocking polystyrene forms that are filled with reinforced concrete. The result is a wall system that is incredibly strong, thermally efficient, and airtight — a continuous envelope of insulation with a solid concrete core.

Unlike traditional timber-frame construction, ICF walls don't have thermal bridges. The insulation is continuous on both sides of the concrete, creating a building envelope that exceeds New Zealand's building code requirements by a significant margin.

ICF wall cross-section diagram — polystyrene forms with concrete core

Thermal mass — nature's battery

Concrete has an extraordinary ability to absorb, store, and slowly release heat. In winter, passive solar gain warms the concrete during the day, and that warmth radiates back into the living space through the evening and night.

In summer, the thermal mass absorbs excess heat, keeping interiors cool and comfortable. The result is a home that needs dramatically less heating and cooling — many of our homes use as little as a single heat pump for the entire house.

Thermal mass diagram — sun warming concrete walls, heat radiating at night

From vision to reality

01

Consultation & Design

We begin with your vision — how you want to live, your site, your aspirations. We work with leading architects to develop a design that maximises the potential of concrete construction.

02

Engineering & Consent

Our engineering partners ensure every structural element is optimised. We manage the consent process, navigating Canterbury's building requirements with experience and efficiency.

03

ICF Construction

Forms are assembled on-site, reinforcing steel is placed, and concrete is poured. The walls go up faster than traditional concrete construction, with precision and minimal waste.

04

Finishing & Handover

Form-marked concrete finishes, polished floors, timber accents — we bring the raw beauty of concrete to life. Every detail is considered, every surface intentional.

Why choose concrete?

Energy Efficiency

Up to 70% reduction in heating costs compared to standard NZ homes. Thermal mass works 24/7.

Earthquake Resilient

Reinforced concrete is the strongest residential building material. Critical for Canterbury.

Fire Resistant

Concrete doesn't burn. 4-hour fire rating standard. Peace of mind built into every wall.

Sound Insulation

The mass of concrete blocks sound transmission. Interior peace, regardless of what's outside.

Low Maintenance

No painting, no re-cladding, no rot. Concrete ages gracefully — it only gets better with time.

100+ Year Lifespan

Build once, build right. A concrete home is a legacy — for your family and for Canterbury.

Curious about concrete?

We'd love to walk you through the science, the process, and the possibilities.

Talk to Us