Custom designed interiors bring a unique flare to any office space. A well designed and visually appealing working environment that is acoustically designed for the company working style increases motivation, energy and efficiency.

When Kotahi office manager Shanelle Sanson set out to transform their new office space into a unique working environment, she enlisted the help of Unispace associate Rosie Taylor.

Kotahi Global-Freight Solutions had outgrown its previous office, but had come to love the high studs of the old heritage building. Sanson wanted to emulate that spaciousness in their new building. With an expanding workforce and open plan style of working, tailored acoustics were also a priority. Taylor needed a new product that could impress visually and perform acoustically without using too much space.

Rosie Taylor's designs were influenced by the company's core business of worldwide freight logistics. Her design scheme "used freight and ocean-inspired materiality and imagery to reflect Kotahi's story".

Taylor reinforced the Kotahi brand by infusing the brand colours into the design scheme. Orange, black, muted green and blue were used throughout the fit out. "We wanted products that could be customised to reflect Kotahi's story whilst still having great aesthetics and functionality," says Taylor. Autex design and manufacture locally, so the company was well placed to create and supply bespoke, custom designed, acoustic products.

Key elements of Kotahi's brand and core business are embodied throughout the office. The reception space has become a focal point. "We customised a stacked shipping container-inspired wall using Quietspace Panels overlaid with Etch fabric that allowed design flexibility and acoustic benefits for noise reduction."

Etch is an exciting new addition to the Autex offering. Created using laser technology, Etch is a wall fabric combining design, colour and texture. It is available in a palette of 28 colours and 15 standard patterns or can be 'Etched' to any custom design. Etch is suited for overlaying directly onto existing surfaces or can be used in combination with an Autex acoustic backing option to provide a customised range of noise management alternatives. A decorative, functional and durable interior finish, Etch is suitable for commercial offices, theatres, libraries, retail, hospitality and education spaces. 

With Etch, Taylor could create a stunning design, customised for company brand, working style and acoustic requirements.

Taylor says her client "loves their new space and way of working, which is the project's biggest success".