New Zealand Commercial Design Trends Series NZ Commercial Design Trends Vol. 34/02C | Page 76

“The original 1980s building that we started with
is unrecognisable in the new hotel,” says Muir.
“But, the existing structures did have good bones
and the layout of the entry building and sprawling
two-level buildings behind, ringing private gardens,
were ideal for the hotel’s intimate, quirky feel.”
However, the old entranceway and facade were
completely upgraded and reworked by Muir, with
new tile cladding approximating the light-catching
sheen of the Tui bird’s plumage.
“We refurbished and reroofed the entry canopy
and introduced new lighting and signage to make a
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much more appropriate approach statement.”
The existing entry lobby and glazed curtain wall
also needed replacing, with the hotel entry angled
to avoid a direct entry to reception and through to
the rear – as required by the Feng Shui consultant.
“Adding to the arrival experience, we repositioned
various elements inside the lobby building, including
the reception,” says Muir. “Previously tucked into
a modest wall niche, this now takes rightful centre
stage in the greater space.”
The bar and dining area were also re-sited, with
an existing internal steel spaceframe demolished
Previous pages and these
pages The back-lit onyx bar
is set against the back of the
reception wall. The phrase in
lights – ruffle your tail feathers –
is an encouragement for guests
to leave their rooms and enjoy
the hotel’s wider ambience. Plush
ceiling-to-floor drapes and a large
chandelier are two of many luxe
touches in the greater space.