People will be wowed when arriving land side at Auckland’s International Airport.

Taking over a sunny glass corner site on the first floor, this bar and café has distinct hints of kiwiana that will suit everyone’s tastes. With a welcoming grand portal entrance, the unique corner space has been designed to create a lasting impression to visitors departing or family and friends whisking off on a holiday or business destination.

The flavours of kiwiana are subtle and elegantly used to depict the inherent qualities of the New Zealand lifestyle. Pacifica elements in the false concrete blocks add a quirky touch to the wall decoration and the use of beautifully designed and handprinted New Zealand wallpapers adorn the adjoining walls. A canopy of lights reflect the natural warmth and glow of the sun and the amazing full sized natural New Zealand timber trees, which branch out over the ceiling create a canopy effect for the indoor courtyard.

Entrance walls are finished in Resene SpaceCote Low Sheen tinted to Resene Quill Grey contrasting against Resene Nero on the bar front, rafters and library wall and wall panelling in Resene Ivanhoe. The grid and tile ceiling features Resene Dune complemented by Resene Vanquish on the ceiling bulkhead and courtyard rafters and joists in Resene Quill Grey. False concrete block is given added texture with Resene Sandtex mediterranean effect finish tinted to Resene Quill Grey. The care individual flower panels in Resene Archive Grey.

Aimed to cater for a variety of groups, the space has divisions of areas allowing patrons to select an area that suits their situation, whether the information internal courtyard, cosy traditional library or the open spaces with large scale screens to catch the latest sports action. A separate area is also designed for café sitting with booth seating to give added privacy.

This quirky yet relaxed design also cleverly combines the working services well with both bar and café combined and separate finished employed to create the division of usages and overall experience for the patrons.

This new concept bar and café is a welcome addition to the airport lounge reflecting the New Zealand psyche admirably and utilising well designed and crafted products and finishes which are uniquely Kiwi.

Architectural Specifier: Peter Whitelaw
Building Contractor: Complete Construction
Colour Selection: Burning Red Design
Painting Contractor: Steve King, North South
Project: Resene Total Colour Awards 2012

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