Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Who is behind OSM3604®?

OSM3604® is an initiative by Offsite Design Ltd, a specialist timber consultancy based in Christchurch, New Zealand.

What is this initiative all about?

The guidance is intended to promote best practice, improve coordination between disciplines, and ensure consistent delivery of high-quality building envelopes using timber framed offsite construction methods.

A long-term goal of this initiative is to enable mass application of light timber framed panels by designers and fabricators to take up panelised construction and realise the benefits of off-site manufacture.

Does OSM3604® cost anything?

Downloading and using any resource materials on here is entirely free.

Who/which projects is OSM3604® for?

OSM3604® is for anyone interested in lifting quality and productivity in light timber frame construction in New Zealand.

Low-energy, Passivhaus, above code designs of relatively square and compact geometry are generally very well suited.

OSM3604® does not automatically realise its benefits, but only if applied to building designs, typologies, and settings that have been carefully designed and optimised for it.

OSM3604® is NOT for every project. If in doubt, feel free to contact Offsite Design Ltd or ask any OSM3604® fabricator for feedback.

Is OSM3604® a New Zealand standard?

No. But maybe it should be!? And maybe one day it will be?

In the meantime the resources offered up on here under the OSM3604® label are a Guideline and Code of Practice for anyone interested in designing and building with closed timber frame panels in New Zealand.

Why a registered trademark?

OSM3604® trademark is intended as a quality mark for buildings designed and delivered in accordance with the OSM3604® Guideline and Code of Practice.