GHD Wellington celebrates culture and connection
At a glance
Our aim was to reimagine how we work together, seamlessly integrating in-office and hybrid workstyles with the latest technology and collaborative spaces that foster both innovation and connection.
The challenge
The previous workspace felt disjointed, lacking the social cohesion our teams needed. It became clear that we needed to strengthen a sense of identity and unity. This was a chance to create a workspace that our team would enjoy coming to work in and foster a deeper sense of community and connection.
Our response
Nestled on the Wellington Waterfront, our new office seamlessly integrates indigenous design elements that honour mana whenua and celebrate the region's rich cultural heritage. With panoramic views of the city skyline, Beehive and harbour, the space offers a stunning backdrop from every angle.
Inspired by the cultural narratives of Te Ara Tupua and nearby areas of significance, the design embodies the values of GHD and mana whenua, creating a welcoming and uplifting environment for both kaimahi (staff) and manuhiri (visitors).
The design of the office captures the essence of these elements, highlighting the deep connection between the land, sea and people. Cultural expressions, including the region's native flora and fauna and the practice of raranga, imbue the space with a sense of place and connection.
At the heart of the office is a unique piece of artwork, where each interwoven strand represents our core values: Tikanga Haumaru – Safety, Whanaungatanga – Teamwork, Whakamana – Respect, and Whakapono – Integrity. This intricate design extends outward, symbolising the unity of all people with the space, the place and each other.
The office layout features bookable neighbourhood desks along the perimeter to ensure everyone enjoys the 360-degree views. The lounge, with its sweeping views of the harbour, Oriental Bay and Mt. Victoria, is a perfect spot for reflection, collaboration and casual connections with colleagues.
The impact
This isn't just a place to work. It’s become a lively, welcoming environment that supports well-being, sparks creativity and strengthens connections among our team and visitors. The cultural elements woven into the design, along with the materials we’ve carefully selected, highlight our commitment to cultural respect, environmental sustainability and community engagement.