In a harmonious collaboration between Stack Interiors, and Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trust and its subsidiary, Whai Rawa, its new offices have been brought to life with the essence of whanaungatanga, or strengthening ties between kin and communities, at its heart. As the lease of the previous Whai Rawa office was coming to an end, a decision was made for the Trust and Whai Rawa to unite under one roof. The site of this new workplace is nestled in Te Tōangaroa Quay Park, providing a strategic and vibrant setting for the Trust and Whai Rawa to continue their work.

The design of the new workspace sought to achieve a functional and agile environment that would cater to the unique needs of both organisations. Additionally, it aimed to reflect the identity of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, both in the present and as they envision themselves in the future. The challenge was to express Māori kaupapa (philosophy) within the context of an existing office floor plan.

One element in achieving this harmonious blend of functionality and cultural expression was the choice of flooring. Stack Interiors opted for a combination of Interface's Look Both Ways Collection for the carpet tile and Level Set - Textured Stones collection for the Luxury Vinyl Tile, creating a seamless transition from the kitchen area to the office while infusing the space with a vibrant and meaningful aesthetic.

The Look Both Ways Collection features monolithic textures symbolising gravity and substance. These materials inspire creativity through unexpected combinations, celebrating the art of mixing and matching. The LVT patterns within this collection seamlessly combine purity with playfulness. This choice delivers a visually pleasing aesthetic and ensures a smooth transition between soft and hard surfaces within the workspace.

The Leve; Set - Textured Stones Collection LVT is the perfect companion to the Look Both Ways Collection, creating a cohesive design theme throughout the office space. The similar colour palettes and textures of both collections contribute to a visually pleasing and harmonious atmosphere, allowing for the custom Resene Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei walls and ceiling to stand out.

The choice of flooring materials plays a grounding role in creating a workspace that reflects the values, identity, and aspirations of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trust and Whai Rawa. It stands as a testament to the power of design in uniting tradition and progress, culture, and commerce, and the past and the future.