Let me entertain you

Innovative store interiors are transforming the look of our shopping malls. But even the most adventurous design is dependent on the quality of the fit-out.

For fit-out specialist Source Projects, it's the hands-on personal approach that makes the difference, says co-owner Aaron Munro.

"Having a team leader on site at all times is just one of the ways we ensure a project proceeds smoothly," he says. "We also work very closely with designers and store owners to get the best result."

Source Projects' expertise is reflected in the number of fit-outs it has undertaken, which include some of New Zealand's best-known retailers. At Sylvia Park, these include Nando's, Canterbury New Zealand, Andrea Biani and the Christmas Heirloom Company.

Munro says Nando's food outlets are built to different designs, with each store unique. The Sylvia Park store, designed by Gavin Purdy of Ignite, features large curved, slatted wood canopies, which are extensions of the bench seating. Designed to enclose the booths and provide a more intimate atmosphere, the canopies are also suspended from a high, concealed ceiling.

"Both the canopies and the lowered ceiling in other areas help to create the intimate, cave effect," says Munro. "Another area at the rear of the store is also designed with this in mind. This booth features red-painted, cement-rendered walls, with niches and downlighting to highlight decorative elements."

Munro says the Canterbury fit-out, shown below, was notable for its strong graphic elements. A custom racking system was designed and installed so it appears to be floating out from the walls. Similarly, large wall panels mounted on stainless steel poles also create a floating effect.

The Source Projects' success can also be attributed to sourcing the right subcontractors, so that a project is completed on time and on budget, says Munro. Subcontractors on these projects include signage company Neon Fabrication, DNT Electrical, Allgo Plumbing, Basically Floors, and PM Painters.

Source Projects works on fit-outs throughout New Zealand and overseas.

For details, contact Source Projects, PO Box 137-175, Parnell, Auckland, phone 0800 876 551, fax 0800 876 552. Email: aaron@sourceprojects.co.nz, or john@sourceprojects.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas