In line with meeting the spatial requirements of the head tenant, the building was required to meet IL4 resilience; NABERs and a GreenStar design environmental rating. Tūwharetoa and DCA recognised the opportunity for a cultural narrative to be woven and integrated through the building.

A four level atrium connected to the main Horomatangi Street to the North and a South entry connected to council public carpark. This created a vertical circulation and orientation spine that accessed the 4 levels. The pushing and pulling of the public landings to each level within the atrium are pointed in ley lines south the Tongariro (Maunga) and north towards Huka falls and Aratiatia rapids, synonymous with ancestral legends. The western interior wall of the atrium is a large scale artwork depicting the narratives of Tūwharetoa.

A laser cut artwork screen to the street recalls the story of high priest Ngatoroirangi plucking tassels from his Korowai, throwing in the Lake to create aquatic life. This screen cascades down to a canopy that is an analogy of the turbulent waters of Huka falls and Aratiatia rapids. The Tuwharetoa entities fitout is designed to be rich in colour and texture reminiscent of the forest, lake and volcanic whenua.

The atrium interior is moody, highlighted by warm tones of timber. The majority of the site accommodates the tenant’s requirement for a secure vehicle parking. The carpark is wrapped in a mesh screen, masking the sight of vehicles, but also allowing for ventilation.