NEW OFFICES

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXI, 4 May 1927, Page 4

NEW OFFICES

FOR ANCHOR COMPANY Tile new building to be erected at Port Nelson for the Anchor Shipping and Foundry Company will be on the site previously occupied by the Union Steam Shipping Company’s old offices, and a portion of tho ground at rear of same, the total area to be. covered being 56ft by 40ft. It is to he two stories high, erected in reinforced concrete, with certain portions faced with pressed brick. The building is designed on comparatively plain lines, but, with its parts well arranged and of good proportions, will he quite an imposing structure. Tho design is materially enhanced by the inclusion of a large proportion of steelframed windows, giving the building a cheerful appearance. By these, too, is ensured ample light and air to every part. ’flic main entrance is from Wakefield quay, and lends to a spacious public office, access from Ihe outer vestibule thereto being by means of a specially constructed revolving door which effectually excludes all wind and draught. Lying directly before one on entering is a circular counter, at the back of which iire arranged the various offices in which the work directly connected with the public is carried on. These comprise what arc known as passages, claims, freight, manifesting, and wharf offices, the last-named having an extra entrance direct from the road leading to the wharf. The strong-room, and a large bicycle room for the clerks, occupy the remainder of the ground floor. A roomy staircase leads from the public office to the upper floor, and the passage from the top larding of this, leads direct to the manager’s and chief clerk’s offices. Other offices on this floor are tlie invoicing, ledger, auditor’s. arid typists’ rooms. A large stationery room is also provided. The offices have been very carefully arranged so that all those in which work is regularly carried or; receive the benefit of the sun for a good portion of the day. The. building is to he, heated ly what is known as the central healing system, hot water flowing from a coke-heated boiler, through a series of radiators, placed at tiie various points required, and ensuring a pleasant, even warmth throughout. Lavatory acc(om!mc/lation is conveniently placed, and is to he on up-to-date lines. The floors to the public office, manager’s, and chief clerks’ offices, and passage thereto, are to be covered with “Rublino" tiles, recommended for their good wearing qualities and artistic appearance.; An important matter not overlooked, is provision for convenient access to tho roof, part of which is to be flat. This will enable the manager and members of bis staff to make a survey of the bay (from a height of about 32ft from the road level), ir; respect of the company’s vessels port, or the weather conditions.

The architect for the building is Mr A. R. Griffin, of Nelson; and the contractors Robertson Bros. Ltd., Nelson. The contract time is five months.