New Zealand Commercial Design Trends Series NZ Commercial Design Trends Vol. 30/12 | Page 98

Langford says linking the two separate floors of the new office was the first priority. “We opened up a 6m-diameter circular hole in the upper floor to create a void, and designed a wide spiral staircase. This forms the central node of the office, around which everything revolves. It also provides opportunities for staff interaction as they move through the office.” The staircase features sustainably sourced black beech timber treads, and forms a sculptural centrepiece in the reception area. Bands of black beech timber also curve around the spiralling glass balustrading. “We deliberately chose B-grade timber for its textural look,” says Langford. “The holes and knots in the wood add visual appeal. The same timber clads the curved wall accommodating the reception desk. For added interest we created arrow-shaped 90 search | save | share at trendsideas.com joins where the planks butt up against each other. “On an abstract level, the raw, organic materials reference BP’s involvement in the harnessing of natural energy. Similarly, the round motif recalls the sun, which BP incorporates into its branding, as the ultimate source of all energy.” The motif is repeated in an extra-large timberlined circular light fitting above the stairwell. Green, a BP corporate colour, is also referenced, in a band around the balustrading. Green appears in the reception area furniture as well, where it is teamed with white for a fresh, crisp look. Langford says workers have swipe cards to pass through Gunnebo Speedstiles beside the stairs. The rest of the lower level is designed to provide clear access for visitors to meeting rooms, a client lounge and a Wildbean Café test kitchen. “Coffee is a big part of the BP culture,” says Below:A large void was opened up between the two floors in the office, which are now linked by a sculptural spiral staircase that encourages staff interaction. Right:The stair features B-grade black beech timber, chosen for its raw, textural look. Bands of timber and a green strip also wrap around the circular glass balustrade.