Material Focus: Baker Tilly Staples Rodway

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The kitchen area on Level 12. Image: Hamish Melville

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Bar stools at the kitchen island are Warwick Pelle Sage. Image: Hamish Melville

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Booth seating in the social hub is Warwick Eastwood Tan. Image: Hamish Melville

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The reception area features chairs with Warwick Lovely Cinnamon. Image: Hamish Melville

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Partner Content: Stack Interiors senior designer Lauren Schott talks us through the thinking behind the timeless design at this sophisticated two-storey workspace in Auckland’s city centre which features a selection of Warwick Fabrics.

What were you aiming for in this new space?

Lauren Schott (LS): We were looking to create a modern, connected workplace to unite the Baker Tilly Staples Rodway (BTSR) team: to bring everyone together and support collaboration, client engagement and well-being in a single, dynamic setting.

What were your key design moves?

LS: The design translates BTSR’s values of integrity, teamwork and quality service into a cohesive workplace strategy. Level 12 centres around a concierge and café/social hub that can shift easily from client welcome zone to event and social space. This involved the use of operable walls, adaptable furniture and integrated technology to facilitate transitions between meetings, training and functions. Level 13 is home to the main work areas, where we’ve sought to balance focus and connection, through low partitions, greenery and light-filled ‘neighbourhood’ zones. There are private rooms for concentrated work and collaborative booths for informal catch-ups.

Were there any significant challenges?

LS: BTSR was undergoing a considerable shift in its long-established ways of working. This meant moving away from a traditional management structure, where leaders occupied private offices, positioned to benefit from the best views and natural light, and transitioning to a more agile, hybrid model. Our approach removed hierarchical spatial distinctions and introduced an open-plan environment where everyone shared the same workspace. For some team members, this represented a considerable adjustment. Managing expectations and being transparent about the changes helped the team adapt well and settle into the new way of working. It was very much a collaborative process. Careful consideration was given to the selection of materials, colours and textures, with a preference for natural tones and finishes that would endure over time. Subtle references to the surrounding views were incorporated, along with understated nods to BTSR’s branding.

Warwick Fabrics swatches: Norden Forest, Hades Olive, Weave Rug Alessandre Mineral, Duke Hazel, Maclaren Olive, Weave Rug Fabien Stone,Mishka Clay, Duke Kale, Noyack Earth, Norden Ivory. Image: Art direction by André Kini

Tell us about your choice of fabrics.

LS: Our choice was driven by a balance of aesthetics, functionality and longevity. We wanted warm, tactile materials that reinforced the natural and timeless design language of the space. Warwick Fabrics’ Pelle and Eastwood ranges were perfect for the kitchen bar stools and booth seating. They offered the sophisticated appearance of leather while delivering a softer feel and enhanced practicality, creating both a visually refined and a highly functional solution for a high-traffic area. Ultimately, we selected fabrics to support both the visual identity of the space and the comfort and well-being of those using it.

See more in the Material Focus series, including inspiration from the New York Grill, Naumi Hotel (Auckland), Fabric Bistro and more, here.

ArchitectureNow and Architecture NZ work with a range of partners in the A&D supply sector to create appropriate content for the site. This article has been supported by Warwick Fabrics.

If your brand or clients are interested in similar creative content email mark.lipman@agm.co.nz to enquire.