Reaping the Rewards

In most cases, a successful fitout is reward enough for the designers and their client, as the design process itself can be protracted and complex. However, Simpson Grierson's new Wellington premises, which challenge traditional notions of a legal practice, have also won two New Zealand Institute of Architects awards.

The combined efforts of Geyer, JASMAX and Schiavello/KADA proved award-winning when Simpson Grierson moved into the HSBC Tower in the heart of Wellington's CBD, a move which Simpson Grierson partner Mike Scannell has dubbed both smart and strategic. "Not only does it make commercial sense for our organisation," he says, "but the building, its views and our office fitout are also smart. Working from such efficient, well-designed floor space and facilities has a positive impact on teamwork, workflow and the culture of the organisation, and this directly benefits our clients."

Peter Geyer, of Geyer Pty Ltd, built on Simpson Grierson's dynamic, professional outlook in developing the concept through Strategic Briefing Workshops, designing intersecting spaces to flow into one another, integrating the research centre with a cafe, and including a 'cultural hub' for Simpson Grierson's people, so that social interaction and research can be combined.