New Zealand Commercial Design Trends Series NZ Commercial Design Trends Vol. 30/12 | Page 98

Langford says linking the two separate floors of
the new office was the first priority.
“We opened up a 6m-diameter circular hole in
the upper floor to create a void, and designed a
wide spiral staircase. This forms the central node of
the office, around which everything revolves. It also
provides opportunities for staff interaction as they
move through the office.”
The staircase features sustainably sourced
black beech timber treads, and forms a sculptural
centrepiece in the reception area. Bands of black
beech timber also curve around the spiralling glass
balustrading.
“We deliberately chose B-grade timber for its
textural look,” says Langford. “The holes and knots
in the wood add visual appeal. The same timber
clads the curved wall accommodating the reception
desk. For added interest we created arrow-shaped

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joins where the planks butt up against each other.
“On an abstract level, the raw, organic materials
reference BP’s involvement in the harnessing of
natural energy. Similarly, the round motif recalls the
sun, which BP incorporates into its branding, as the
ultimate source of all energy.”
The motif is repeated in an extra-large timberlined circular light fitting above the stairwell.
Green, a BP corporate colour, is also referenced,
in a band around the balustrading. Green appears
in the reception area furniture as well, where it is
teamed with white for a fresh, crisp look.
Langford says workers have swipe cards to pass
through Gunnebo Speedstiles beside the stairs.
The rest of the lower level is designed to provide
clear access for visitors to meeting rooms, a client
lounge and a Wildbean Café test kitchen.
“Coffee is a big part of the BP culture,” says

Below:A large void was opened
up between the two floors in the
office, which are now linked by
a sculptural spiral staircase that
encourages staff interaction.
Right:The stair features B-grade
black beech timber, chosen for
its raw, textural look. Bands of
timber and a green strip also
wrap around the circular glass
balustrade.