Space Studio were the winners of the Hotel Over 200 Rooms – Asia Pacific Award in The International Hotel and Property Awards 2022.

Cordis opened its new 17-storey tower last December, becoming New Zealand’s largest hotel by room count including 244 new rooms and suites, executive lounge, character bar, event space and refurbishment to existing restaurants, reception, Spa and a new VIP lobby.

A key focus was to ensure the tower interior would still be in keeping with the existing hotel but would also lift the brand to new heights. The new extension was also intended to maximise the availability of natural light and access to incredible views. Space Studio worked closely with architects, Jasmax and a wide team of consultants to ensure every aspect of the project would be perfect for the guests. The tower floor plan was an organic boomerang shape, to fit the available land on the existing site. This shape is very difficult structurally, and as a result there was a lot of steel structure through the building, creating a challenge for positioning of services and a wide variety of room shapes. Creating a uniform and seamless experience for the guest was a huge MEP challenge for the project.

Space Studio had to ensure that they met the standards of the Cordis brand, but there were also a number of other parameters to consider such as making sure everything would be the right height and within reach. Ultimately, everything was designed to be intuitive for the guest. There were layers and layers of detail and consideration. Selected colours and textures are restrained and refined in keeping with the 5-star luxury brand while also expressing aspects of Aotearoa’s natural environment.

Shaped by a narrative that was developed with the mana whenua of central Tamaki Makaurau, Ngati Whatua Orakei. It includes Maori concepts of Te Whai Ao (light), Manawa (heart) and Kaitiakitanga (guardianship). The transition starts with a specially curated art promenade, inspired by the landscape of Auckland. Further engagement with local culture and art is invited as guests move through the levels.

Space Studio

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