Description:

Harrows, a family-owned regional business, masterfully crafts tailored commercial furniture with a clear purpose: "crafted for connection." Following a branding refresh, Harrows sought a showroom that would embody their new identity and their aspiration to be the champions of social spaces. Their core customers—designers and architects—crave a space where they can inspire clients and experiment with diverse furniture solutions.
The choice of the iconic, heritage-listed Orange Coronation Hall in Eden Terrace was deliberate. Its stunning architectural features—high ceilings, steel windows flooding the space with natural light, native timber flooring, and a spacious open hall—create the perfect canvas for the furniture. We needed a space that resonates across various commercial sectors, from workplace and hospitality design to education, healthcare, and public spaces.
Our vision was to create an immersive customer experience where clients could effortlessly transition between different social settings and freely mix and match furniture items. Flexibility was key, not only to adapt to larger events but also to create functional zones for the sales team within the showroom, showcasing the versatility of Harrows' products.
The heritage status and lease covenants presented unique challenges—no internal walls, and no attachments to floors, walls, or ceilings. However, this limitation became an opportunity to highlight the adaptability of Harrows' furniture systems. We divided the space into various spatial "typologies" using strategic lighting, curtains, shelving dividers, and larger furniture systems to define areas.
Selecting materials, colours, and finishes that allowed each piece to shine while creating a cohesive look was essential. Contemporary paintings with tones and forms from each zone tied the settings together, enhancing the overall aesthetic.
Harrows is transitioning from being seen as "just another New Zealand furniture manufacturer" to becoming the "champions of social spaces." This showroom is a confident statement of their design expertise and deep understanding of what makes a great social space. It's a space where designers and architects feel inspired to bring clients, showcasing the value of New Zealand design. Here, clients can experience the importance of fostering spaces for social connection, reinforcing Harrows' position as leaders in the field.