Comvita’s Paengaroa Workplace

Our challenge was to transform a dated building with an interior that paid homage to the history of the brand whilst also reflecting the global company of today. We wanted staff to feel inspired through a strong connection to nature and to challenge the traditional notion of an office. We also had the task of unifying two completely different buildings architecturally that are separated by an outdoor space.

Whilst a workplace project, we took a hospitality design approach and introduced material and tone inspired by nature and the warmth of honey. We used an unexpected palette of cool greens and warm golden tones to create dramatic spaces that felt like home to the nature loving staff. We transformed the spaces into flexible co-working zones with a central hospitality hub for connection. Careful curation of memorabilia and artwork tied the interior together and evoked an emotional response and a sense of pride.

A Whakatūwheratanga (opening and dawn blessing) was held to celebrate the opening of the spaces named Te Maru (The Shelter) and Tānga Manawa (the Place My Heart Rests), led by Tapuika, the local Māori iwi. This ceremony signified a new beginning for the buildings. From the moment the new interior was opened to staff the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Comvita have found a significant increase in number of staff working from the office and a broader use of the space across the different departments.

We took a multisensory approach to colour and materials, taking inspiration from nature. We committed to a bold scheme throughout of strong warm honey tones contrasted with the cooler green foliage shades. We also added warmth of timber, the terrazzo and terracotta of layered earth. On arrival you are greeted with a warm wall of lit honey in lab vessels which creates an impactful focal point. In front is a 10 metre green upholstered bench seat with tables for perching with your laptop. We worked with the existing concrete flooring and added a sage green stain to create some drama and unify the spaces. This was complemented with a combination of honey and green tone walls. The playful terrazzo look tile in greens and honey drops is featured throughout in splashbacks and bathrooms. The natural toned scheme continues in the large lunchroom space with the stained concrete floor throughout, two tone green kitchen cabinetry and matching benchtop and seating zones. Throughout both spaces greenery was key, a large indoor tree as well as numerous pots added a much needed authentic connection to nature. New photography from Comvita’s regenerated forest was commissioned to bring a contemporary edge to the space.