Contact Energy

Contact Energy’s new Auckland workplace brings warmth and flexibility to their relocation, creating a distinct, homely environment while making strategic use of an existing fitout.

Delivered in collaboration with Studio DB, the project supported Contact Energy’s move from a partial tenancy on Level 7 to a full-floor workplace on Level 21 of the HSBC Tower, in the heart of Tāmaki Makaurau. The design responds to the organisation’s identity and ways of working through a welcoming, flexible environment that supports hybrid work, encourages connection, and makes the most of the panoramic harbour outlook. 

The result is an adaptable workplace that balances operational efficiency with a strong sense of care. It brings together work, meeting, gathering, and social spaces in a setting that feels connected, generous, and easy to use.

 

Adaptive reuse and circular workplace design

 

A key part of the project’s value was found in working carefully with what was already there.

The team adapted an existing HSBC fitout, retaining high-quality finishes and limiting demolition where possible. New construction was introduced only where spatial change was needed to support Contact Energy’s use of the floor.

Existing furniture and selected fitout elements were also reused, helping reduce waste while supporting a fast project programme and an optimised budget . This practical approach aligned with Contact Energy’s sustainability aspirations and brought a circular mindset into the design and delivery process.

 

Designed for people, connection, and hybrid work

 

The workplace was shaped by a clear strategic brief and a set of design principles centred on people, culture, flexibility, and connection.

A range of work settings supports different modes of activity, from focused work and hybrid meetings to informal collaboration, hosting, and larger team gatherings. Social spaces were designed to feel relaxed and generous, with the kitchen and shared areas acting as the heart of the workplace.

Contact Energy’s identity has been woven through the fitout using warmth, colour, texture, planting, and curved forms to create a softer and more relaxed workplace experience.

 

A workplace that feels like home

 

The end result reflects Contact Energy’s idea that “it’s good to be home”. The design brings a residential quality to the workplace through comfortable furniture, layered lighting, natural materials, and familiar, welcoming spaces.

Views across the Waitematā Harbour are used as an everyday wellbeing benefit, giving staff, visitors, and project teams a strong connection to Auckland’s waterfront setting.

Delivered on time, on budget, the fitout provides Contact Energy with a flexible new home in Tāmaki Makaurau shaped around the people who use it.

 

Project highlights

 

• Full-floor workplace fitout for Contact Energy at HSBC Tower, Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland
• Delivered in collaboration with Studio DB
• Adaptive reuse of an existing HSBC fitout
• Retention of high-quality existing finishes where possible
• Reuse of existing furniture and selected fitout elements
• Flexible work, meeting, gathering, and social spaces
• Delivered on time and on budget