Show and tell

Having consulted on building services for many major projects over the years, the tenant of this new office was able to put its ideas into practice for its own fit-out. Norman Disney Young's new Wellington office in a high-rise on The Terrace also presented an opportunity to walk the talk in respect to sustainable design.

The fit-out, which was designed by Peddle Thorp Montgomery and built by Mainzeal Interiors, has transformed an empty shell into a contemporary office that is a showcase for energy-efficient building services technology.

Stuart Bagley, director to NDY Global, says the company has long had a close association with the building owner AMP NZ Office Trust, and relished the opportunity to relocate its business close to its clients within central government.

"The move also enabled us to commission a fit-out that would highlight emerging trends in office design both architectural and technological," says Bagley. "The use of passive chilled beam technology, for example, was a first for Wellington. This technology, which utilises a natural convection process rather than forcing the air over the water-chilled beams, was particularly appropriate for this office, which is not large. And, of course, it's a highly energy-efficient option, doing away with the need for traditional air conditioning."

NDY also took the opportunity to expose all the other building services, including the high-end C-Bus lighting and audiovisual control system. The lighting and sprinkler systems are incorporated within the chilled beams.

"In light of our business, it was important to have all these services on show," says Bagley. "This is the best way for us to demonstrate the technology. The energy-efficient LED downlights, for example, highlight another emerging technology that we will be seeing a lot more in the near future."

To maximise the double-height volume of the space, the architects designed a mezzanine floor that accommodates the workstations. This is separated from the public areas by a large, freestanding wall, which helps prevent visual distraction.

Mainzeal Interiors project manager Paula Van Raalte says the fit-out was completed within three months over the Christmas period.

"The timing of the project meant we worked the programme extremely hard prior to Christmas so we wouldn't be faced with problems getting subcontractors on site in early January, which would have put additional stresses on the project."

Van Raalte says that although this was not a large fit-out, it was relatively complex.

"We were also conscious of the need to consider the other tenants in the building. Consequently, much of the noisy work was carried out after hours."

Paul Broughton of AMP NZ Office Trust says the fit-out has greatly enhanced the tenancy, doubling the floor area of the original space and providing a point of reference for the construction industry.

"Mainzeal has provided a very high-quality fit-out, which ensures that the benefits of the emerging technologies are displayed to best advantage," he says.

Bagley also praised the close working relationship with AMP NZ Office Trust, Peddle Thorp Montgomery and Mainzeal.

"All the parties have made a vital contribution to the project, and the high level of staff satisfaction and comfort is a testament to the skills of the whole team."

To contact Mainzeal Interiors, phone (04) 802 7900, fax (04) 802 7901. Email: mzwgtn@mainzeal.com. Website: www.mainzeal.com.

Story by: Trendsideas