As the key space for Aon's New Zealand operations, the client wished to provide public lobby, reception and boardroom spaces that successfully represented the Aon brand within the marketplace, while providing a staff environment that was open, collaborative and fun. Environmental considerations were seen as vital to achieving a successful outcome, and to provide a template for future Aon interiors across New Zealand.

Matz Architects' proposed space for 98 staff was predominantly in open plan, with meeting and breakout spaces located at regular intervals to aid the move from the traditional office-based model that staff were accustomed to.

Upon entering the floor, the public is greeted with a material palette of contrasting natural and man-made materials, and smart use of lighting to highlight key elements.

Splashes of colour are used more liberally in the open plan office space to provide relief from the formal areas, and provide the sense of fun noted in the brief.

Faceted Corian Glacier White walls contrast with warm cedar boards in the public area. Corian was also used creatively on the reception desk and the faceted wall elements. In certain locations, Corian was routed and backlit to take advantage of its translucent nature at reduced depths (the technically challenging fabrication was completed by the team at Greenmount Espies).

The sense of light from the entry area through the boardroom and out over Auckland Harbour was a key driver to achieving a sense of spaciousness on arrival. Staff and clients are totally thrilled with the outcome, with the original design concept now being rolled out to Aon offices around the country.

"Staff on all of our occupied floors are so amazed with our new floor. We are getting so many compliments from clients," says Lara Hares from Aon.