Allproof Shower Trays Deliver a 5-Star Landmark
Allproof delivered a premium system and finish to the 5-star Cordis Hotel in Auckland while navigating challenges throughout the construction process.
Cordis is one of Auckland’s premier hotel and conference destinations. In late 2021, the hotel opened its landmark 17-storey Pinnacle Tower, boosting capacity to 640 rooms and making it the largest hotel in New Zealand by room count. Designed by renowned architects Jasmax at a cost of $170 million, the Pinnacle Tower brought a new level of 5-star accommodation to Auckland’s central city. Behind the striking exterior, the project brought together the best of New Zealand design, construction, manufacturing, and commercial plumbing.
When designing the hotel, durability and trusted systems were key priorities. Architect Philip Rutkiewicz selected fittings that would offer the best guaranteed lifespan. Even in a concrete and steel structure, Jasmax understood the impact of building movement and the real risk that even small waterproofing defects could present. A tiny hairline leak could take months, or even years, to reveal itself, and locating the source once the hotel was operational would be challenging.
With this in mind, Rutkiewicz specified Allproof’s tile-over stainless steel shower tray system for all 235 rooms in the new tower, providing a secure waterproofing solution that aligned with the hotel’s vision of setting “a new benchmark for modern luxury in Auckland” [1].
Stainless Steel: The Premium Waterproofing Choice
Allproof’s stainless steel shower trays offer exceptional waterproofing performance. The fully welded stainless layer falls to a flood-tested channel and spigot connected to a PVC waste, virtually eliminating the risk of leaks. While other impervious solutions, such as exposed stainless steel or acrylic trays, can be used, they often fall short in terms of durability for high-use environments and may not meet the design expectations of a luxury 5-star hotel.
Installed over the floor structure and beneath the tiles, the stainless tray allows the waterproofing membrane to run down the walls and lap into the tray. The result is a completely watertight base concealed beneath the tiled surface and wall linings.
Precision Planning and Customisation
Allproof’s early involvement in the design process allowed careful planning to meet the demanding project schedule. While their tile-over stainless trays are usually custom-measured and fabricated, the scale of the project required a different approach. After multiple site meetings with the designer, main contractor, and plumber, Allproof developed 13 tray designs to cover all room types.
With Hawkins Construction pouring slabs every seven days, there was no time for individual measurements. Allproof laser-cut in-house templates for each tray design so framing and hobs could be built to exact specifications. These templates also marked waste outlet positions, allowing concrete cutters and plumbers to prepare services in advance, ensuring flawless installation.
From Sample Room to Full Production
A sample room was developed for sign-off by the Langham Hospitality Group in Hong Kong. This process allowed Allproof to refine production methods before scaling up. Hanlon Plumbing, contracted for the plumbing installation, stressed the importance of maintaining the schedule. Alternative suppliers were considered but found to be inadequate.
To meet the project’s needs, Allproof dedicated five members of their 35-strong stainless fabrication team solely to tray production. Using their in-house laser cutter, CNC press brakes, and dedicated gluing facilities, they produced all 235 trays in just nine months, completing the work ahead of schedule. Impressively, not a single tray was rejected, a rare outcome in large-scale construction.
This project demonstrates that with proper planning, the right product selection, and collaboration with proven suppliers, complex builds can be delivered ahead of schedule and to the highest standard.
[1] https://www.cordishotels.com/en/auckland/overview/pinnacle-tower/
