Powered by nature
Photos Amy Jenkins
Having spent over 20 years working in the marine industry as a boat and superyacht interior designer, it came naturally to Amy to be in that realm, only this time land based. “I’ve had some time out with some big health and life changes, so this was a really exciting project to dive into,” says Amy. “The project is designing by the seat of my pants, we had a lot to achieve within a tight time frame and keeping costs down as much as possible – then throw a pandemic into the mix.”
Situated in Warkworth, the building being renovated was previously a printing works, was purchased by Larry Ellison, the owner of Oracle, around 2007. Once a highly secretive space, having produced and housed some of the best leading-edge technology that has won America's Cups, it is now embracing those from all walks of life, industries, and attracting the attention of a bigger market.
The company ethos is firmly based on creating and utilising leading-edge technology, integrating sustainability and repurposing materials wherever possible. Amy was mindful of material choices that wove the company's brand into her design decisions. Sourcing materials during a pandemic meant that availability became the deciding factor. “You have a vision as a designer, then there’s the realities of making that happen.”
Now it is an interactive space with rows of touch screens that can walk the user through company history, current technology and offerings, and future visions. Suspended above is one of the F50 Wings, repurposed from a broken Spanish boat. Feature timber wall panelling is locally-sourced NZ sustainable pine, which has been used to create visual interest and also functions as desk surrounds, so existing furniture could be reused.
A beautiful feature of the interior spaces is the large-scale moss walls and living screens. Weaving the powered by nature concept through the walls has softly landscaped the spaces. There is a large polished carbon foil that offers a seat for visitors. The wall behind has the company’s ’Node’ logo.
The meeting room has a highly-polished carbon fibre table, made onsite. It's a great display of some of what the factory is producing. An old foil was repurposed as a feature suspended light. There's a bespoke cabinet that houses tech equipment, as well as an integrated bar fridge for chilled refreshments. Grass cloth wallpaper is another subtle nod to nature.
Wearing many hats during the process in design, procurement, project management, a varied skill set was necessary, “It was a real privilege to work alongside such a dynamic company and a great team of tradespeople,” says Amy.