New Zealand Commercial Design Trends Series NZ Commercial Design Trends Vol. 30/12 | Page 34

“Here again the patterns were extracted from
research images. The repeating hexagonal pattern references cellular images– a pattern we kept
seeing over and over,” the architect says. “The
researchers were strongly engaged in this entire
process, which has helped them accept and feel
part of the project.”
Edwards says this was particularly crucial in view
of the substantial changes introduced to the work
environment.
“This building represents a radical departure from
the established orthodoxy for laboratory buildings,”

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he says. “The whole design is aimed at encouraging
collaboration, interaction and flexibility. Research
scientists are no longer isolated, and we have
rearranged the conventional layout of a research
facility, whereby laboratories and office desks are
in close proximity. Surveys show that researchers
today spend more time in their offices analysing
data from experiments carried out remotely. They
are better served in an environment where they can
talk to colleagues and exchange ideas.”
To this end, Hames Sharley placed communal
areas between the laboratories and offices, and

Below:The large artworks are
digital panels, with the images
showing on both sides. The foyer
doubles as a function centre
for special events for the wider
community.
Below right:Timber veneer
panels also reference
microscopic images, in particular
hexagonal cellular formations.