New Zealand Commercial Design Trends Series NZ Commercial Design Trends Vol. 35/02C | Page 53

These pages:The restaurant and
bar – Vices & Virtues – features
a strong use of local stone and
distinctive Blackbutt timber. The
exposed ceiling embraces the
architectural elements of the
new building. The atrium offers
a bustling outlook for restaurant
goers and hotel patrons.
interior fit-out Phaedra Applin says the focus on
New Zealand and our pristine natural world is
evidenced right from reception.
“This fit-out is very much about connecting to the
New Zealand environment in an authentic way, and
part of this is a lively, naturalistic use of wood. The
reception desk isn’t a slick piece of polished timber,
but rather it’s made of individual strip batons, that
evoke the sense of a stand of layered trees.”
The privacy screens in reception have a similar
layered wood aesthetic, while pure wool New
Zealand carpet provides luxury underfoot.
Throughout the hotel, reception included,
cushions, casual throws, and furnishings are all
textural and natural – letting guest get in touch with
New Zealand in literal terms, whether in the hotel’s
public spaces or in their own luxury suite.
One key feature of the bedrooms that illustrates
Sudima Christchurch City’s authentic New Zealand
experience is the bedhead in guest rooms. These
feature evocative tonal paintings by up-and-coming
New Zealand artist Aroha Gossage.
Plus, colours drawing on the natural environment
that surrounds Christchurch – natural toned timber,
terracotta and green – are to the fore in the Vices &
Virtues restaurant-bar that looks to the atrium one
way and to Victoria Street another.
Besides a generous use of wood, the facility
features New Zealand handmade tiles on the bar
and earthy custom terracotta flooring, says interior
designer Jahnsen Razon of Luchetti Krelle.
And it’s not only the restaurant decor that reflects
our pristine environment – the menu does too.
With things like sustainable line-caught fish, New
Zealand-bred sous vide Angus eye fillet steak, and
locally made Wairiri buffalo cheese on offer, the
eatery really does give a taste of our land and sea.
“The distinctive Moss Spa is finished in natural
Blackbutt timber, white painted brick and pastel
colours to gives a minimal yet warm and relaxing
environment for guests,” says Razon.
“Natural light drenches the Moss Spa lobby and
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