Antipodean wonder

Quirky, lush and celebrating New Zealand materials, this hotel bar fit-out by Space Studio features a Swamp Kauri bar with a natural edge and local basalt across walls and floors

Literal and kitsch elements lighten the atmosphere such

Detail and form is classical, providing a colonial

The entrance signage releases a puff of steam

Key local features include the long Swamp Kauri

Interior designer – "We set about creating an

Handmade ceramics contribute to the bar's exclusively local

The bar ambience is dark and refined, with

Louvres and an outdoor fire mean the bar's

As well as reflecting local materials, the bar

Sophisticated joinery contributes to the bar ambience.

Designed by Space Studio

From the interior designer:

Cordis Auckland came with a brief for a destination bar – Our Land is Alive – that was to feel like a traditional kiwi pub with distinctly New Zealand elements throughout, and at the same time be at home as part of an international 5 star hotel.

The menu and bar would consist of only New Zealand produce.

We set about creating an expression of antipodean wonder.

Nestled in a sunken recess at the hotel entrance, and surrounded in a new lush native forest landscape, we created a base to the interior in deep forest green and timber tones.

Detail and form is classical, providing a colonial reference while the materials and so textures are distinctly local.

Key local features include the long Swamp Kauri bar with a natural edge and a local basalt running across walls and floors with a varied texture.

Pounamu toned counters and table tops, basalt landscaping walls, New Zealand leathers and handmade ceramics all contribute to the local material palette.

Literal and kitsch elements lighten the atmosphere such as the 'land of the long white cloud' sky mural and the entrance signage that releases a puff of steam periodically as a literal expression of how alive our land here in Aotearoa actually is.