The brief for the interior was to create a distinctly New Zealand feel that was light and classically luxurious. With the tower reaching new heights on the site, and increased areas of glazing, Space Studio was interested in capturing the quality of light in Auckland and facilitating the luxurious hospitality central to the Cordis brand.
“We wanted to distinguish the new wing of the hotel as light filled and contemporary, while still in balance with the more classical existing parts of the hotel,” says David Sweatman, Lead Designer at Space Studio.
“Collaborating with Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, key narratives of Te whai ao (the light before dawn), kaitiakitanga (guardianship of the land) and te manawa (the heart line) were established as expressions of the distinct power within Tāmaki Makaurau, the natural forces and the unique aspirations for innovation, heartfelt care and of the present moment that Cordis Auckland seeks to embody,” David states.
Twenty different fabrics from James Dunlop Textiles’ range were specified for the project, alongside fabrics from various other suppliers.
“James Dunlop is often a first point of call for us when sourcing project textiles. Fabrics from the commercial range offer the quality and durability required for hospitality projects. The pricing is always competitive so we know that we will not need to be revisiting specifications when costs are reviewed on a project,” states David.
James Dunlop also make it easy to ensure compliance in meeting NZ building standards the hotel brand standards for composition and durability. The product knowledge and NZ specific testing data provided by James Dunlop Textiles gives us confidence in the products we specify,” he says.
Of the twenty fabrics, some were used for high volume applications such as drapery, headboards and sofas, while indent ranges provided a more distinct quality for public spaces or soft furnishings.
For the high-volume applications, Space Studio enjoyed working with James Dunlop Textiles to meet bespoke specifications such as custom colours and blockout backing for the drapery.
A feature of the guest rooms is a large, glazed window above the bath that allows the bathroom to contribute to the overall ambiance of the space. If privacy is required, the blind closes to reveal a fabric pattern that acts as an artwork in the room. The custom pattern was developed collaboratively between Space Studio and the James Dunlop design team.
“We provided concepts to the James Dunlop design team and from there we collaborated in ensuring correct composition of fabrics and composition of design, pattern and colour. We wanted a pattern that referenced the adze carving on the timber wall panel in the room and ripples in the ocean,” said David.
The guest rooms feature blue and green tones to reference the ocean views, alongside an earthier burnt orange which offers a natural tonal variation of the Cordis brand’s orange. Backing these tones is a warm neutral palette of natural wool and linen style textiles.
Interior Design – Space Studio
Architecture – Jasmax
Photography - Studio:Weir
