Mayurie Gunatilaka, New Zealand Country Leader, Arup said: “Sustainable development is at the heart of Arup’s purpose so it made sense for us to strive for the most rigorous sustainability credentials in designing our new Auckland offices. The team worked hand in glove with our contractors to ensure that the design left a net positive impact on the environment. They went above and beyond to minimise impacts, communicating regularly with suppliers who took back and recycled offcuts, and even recycling plaster dust generated in construction for use in compostable toilets.
“We’re so proud of this new space which brings to life Arup’s purpose of shaping a better world through sustainable development, which aligns with the Māori principle of kaitiakitanga - caring for and nurturing the natural environment. Making all of this possible was the collaboration with Unispace and cultural advisors at Te Manu Taupua to design and co-create a bespoke workplace that celebrates our values and strong connection to Māori culture.”
Pāora Puru, Director, Te Manu Taupua said: “It was important that this project involved working collaboratively with Mana Whenua iwi from the early stages of the planning and design process. The intention was to create a space which reflects the values of kaitiakitanga in minimising impacts to nature, re-using and upcycling as much as possible to reduce waste going to landfill, and adopting naming conventions that recognise the significance of local cultural landmarks. Whatungarongaro te tangata, toitū te whenua - As people disappear from sight, the land remains.”
The new space is designed with sustainability at the heart. Key features include:
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Resource efficiency: the office is designed to use 35% less power, and 30% less water than an equivalent building.
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Carbon accounting: whole life embodied carbon has been accounted with reduced overall emissions and our upfront impact will be offset.
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Sustainable and toxic free materials: All timber used in construction is responsibly sourced verified with FSC certification with chain of custody maintained from responsible forests all the way to our office. Further, at least 90% of materials are free of harmful components outlined in the Living Futures Institute ‘Red List’.
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Biophilic design: the multi-sensory focal point of the Whatu stone with continuously flowing water surrounded by planted punga logs, the retreat space with large plants, and the Strandboard wall finishes, all celebrate connection to place, natural materials and New Zealand cultural significance.