The combination of older industrial elements and modern, warm materials such as Prime's Oak Veneer has resulted in a stylish, contemporary office for Warren and Mahoney — all while giving a nod to the industrial history of the space.

Completed in December last year, Warren and Mahoney's new Auckland Office is located in a 1920s warehouse space in Wynyard Quarter originally occupied by Mason Bros. Engineering Co and more recently by Southern Spar and Rigging. The new office brings Warren and Mahoney's Auckland staff together for the first time under one roof.

The office fit-out was part of a much larger upgrade which saw the building converted into a modern office space. As the project architects, Warren and Mahoney took care to ensure the original character of the warehouse was maintained during the transformation, incorporating existing elements of the building into their modern design — in particular the original steel beams and vast concrete flooring. In order to balance the cooler, industrial elements of their new office space, accents of timber were chosen to soften the overall aesthetic.

Scott Compton, Principal at Warren and Mahoney, had used Prime Panels' oak veneer in another project and was happy with the result, so knew he wanted to integrate it into the new office design. The oak veneer was used for panelling and cabinetry behind the office reception, adding a welcoming warmth. The oak veneer was also used in selected furniture pieces within the office, including desks and individual work stations. The timeless finish of the veneer complements the steel and concrete elements of the building.

A durable product, the texture of Prime's Oak Veneer is resistant to marks, making it an attractive and long-lasting option for wall panelling, cabinetry and even furniture. Prime Panels is owned and manufactured in NZ by NZ Panels Group — a feature appreciated by Warren and Mahoney who focused on working with NZ suppliers for their new headquarters.