Description:

The interior design and delivery of the new workplace for Lion New Zealand, NZ’s leading alcohol beverage company, at 136 Fanshawe Street was an opportunity to create a space that embraced Lions’ personality and sociability, while also introducing new ways of working.

The fit-out brief focused on sustainability and best-practice design thinking, to create a uniquely Lion space, that was functional but didn’t look conventional.

The new space supports Lion’s drive to be the most innovative and sustainable beverages company in Aotearoa, with new ways of working, a range of collaborative spaces and best technology alongside tributes to Lion’s long and proud legacy.

The tenancy comprises two spaces separated by an atrium, the idea and analogy of ‘the street’ was developed to link and connect the spaces. The functions and activities are accessed of this street: ‘the collective’, ‘the commons’ and ‘the studio’ creating linkages and connections. The ‘street’ was anchored at one end by ‘the collective’, a community space that is both client facing and the staff social and collaboration hub – and includes a bar!

The decision to give this space to these functions was a large gesture, but ultimately it was about creating environments for connection and socialisation that reflect Lion’s unique culture and brand. At the other end of ‘the street’ is ‘the commons’, the working space and amenity that support Lions’ people, and ‘the studio’, a dedicated merchandising and workshop space.

Distilling Lion’s personality, sociability and embracing new ways of working, while maintaining a refinement of colour – rather than trying to incorporate all the many brands within the Lion umbrella – was a key consideration, as well as creating a well-defined arrival sequence and a cohesive industrial undertone by exploring and exposing the building.

The design process was aligned for sustainability. Best practice was at the forefront of design thinking and selections, including locally sourced materials where possible, and using sustainable and accredited materials. In responding to Lion’s sustainability aspirations, as much as possible was repurposed from the previous office and including prioritising local materials, trades, and furniture to bring to life Lion’s legacy and personality.