26 | Samson Corporation / NZ Strong T T Karen Phelps Original design, modern adaptation The building has also been expanded at the rear with a mass timber construction element resulting in around 700sqm of tenancy space. “The mass timber building out the back is far more carbon efficient than concrete and steel. The building will have LED lighting and the air-conditioning system has been modelled to maximise operational efficiency while preserving architectural outcomes.” REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT A corner site at 308 Great North Road in Grey Lynn, Auckland, is undergoing a significant redevelopment that will blend architectural heritage with modern sustainability, as the developers work to restore a building with century-old origins, while meeting the demands of contemporary commercial tenants. “There are not many opportunities for potential tenants to obtain such a strong presence of this size of tenancy in central Auckland,” says Callum Scott, Samson Corporation property and operations manager. Callum says that when architect RTA Studio discovered there was an original design from when the building was built around 100 years ago, it informed Samson Corporation’s path forward. “It quickly became apparent that it made sense to revert it back to its original form from a design perspective, flexibility for tenants, sustainability and re-use of the existing structure,” he says. NZ Strong is the head contractor on the project, and aspects of the building are being demolished, including the second storey, and a new roof installed, as well as re-glazing and joinery, and new services. The building has also been expanded at the rear with a mass timber construction element resulting in around 700sqm of tenancy space. “It’s a tight site constrained by two main roads, and of course dealing with an older structure always brings unique complications as it is never quite what’s on the plan,” says Callum. “The mass timber building out the back is far more carbon efficient than concrete and steel. The building will have LED lighting and the air-conditioning system has been modelled to maximise operational efficiency while preserving architectural outcomes.” With completion targeted for March 2026, Callum says there has been strong interest in the tenancy. “We’ve had interest from various parties and it will likely be a showroom tenant.” Samson Corporation Limited is a family-run commercial property investment company that has been leasing space to Auckland businesses since the 1940s. The company provides investment, design and development services for buildings that are specifically designed to adapt to changing commercial environments. Callum says Samson Corporation’s broader portfolio demonstrates a commitment to quality and longevity, and the business model focuses on securing optimal tenants through strategic property development. “Samson secures the best tenants by providing buildings that offer spaces that are productive, flexible, future-proofed,” he says. Samson is known for its Green Lease, and its Building User Guide (BUG), which details what sustainable features the building has and sets guidelines for sustainable operations by lessees. The documents cover areas such as energy management, water management, waste streams, ventilation strategies, alternative transport offerings, health and safety, community engagement and more. The Samson Corporation’s track record includes numerous prestigious projects and accolades. It has received domestic and international recognition, notably with Ironbank on Karangahape Road being awarded Highly Commended in the World Architectural Festival. The company has also received awards from the New Zealand Institute of Architects, with recognition for projects including Geyser, Axis, Cumulus and Site 3. Samson Corporation is also working on another commercial development nearby at 137 Great North Road. The office and show room development is due for completion mid-2026.
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