| 91 INTERIOR DESIGN Designwell Design excellence in fast growing Waikato Hospitality design is another focus at Designwell. The studio has contributed significantly to the Hamilton scene with projects such as MADE, Mr Pickles, Duck Island & Banhmi. T T Sue Russell “We’ve focused a great deal on interior restoration, renovation and refurbishment projects which are really heartening to undertake given the outcome often transforms a once tired space, bringing in new energy and focus for those working in it.” Hamilton interior architecture studio Designwell, is a team of like-minded design professionals working in the interiors, architecture, spatial and industrial design spaces. Established by Alexander and Kristin Wastney, inspiration for the studio stems back to their time overseas, working in what Alexander describes as some ‘really inspiring design companies’ in London and New York. “When we returned home we wanted to carry on the energy we experienced in the very diverse, creative settings overseas. We just felt really lucky to have had these experiences.” Originally Designwell was established to work across brand, product and spatial projects, but our attention focussed on just branding and interiors as there was a need and natural crossover for these two disciplines. Within 5 years the company was 50% branding and 50% interiors so the decision was made to split off the branding component into a sister studio called Daymark. “Our passion and purpose is to bring design excellence as the Waikato was, at the time, somewhat under-served creatively,” Alexander says. The decision to settle in Waikato made sense, with Kristin coming from the region. Today, the province is growing rapidly, creating opportunities for designers to apply their skills across an array of sectors. Pointing to the fact that their creative energy is causing waves, Alexander says that year on year the business has grown, even through the challenges brought by COVID. “We’ve focused a great deal on interior restoration, renovation and refurbishment projects which are really heartening to undertake given the outcome often transforms a once tired space, bringing in new energy and focus for those working in it,” says Alexander. Describing work-space design as the studios ‘bread and butter’, he says the quality of the work environment is critical to any business. “They want to retain and attract the best talent possible, and how their environment presents and performs is fundamental to this.” And particularly in encouraging staff to return to work from the home-office setting post-covid, Alexander notes many clients have chosen to invest in an inspiring and more productive workspace. “There’s increasing evidence that people need to work in a collegial environment, rather than be isolated. Depression, anxiety, social isolation, have all risen since COVID.” The impact great design has in the work situation can’t be over-stated. How spaces are formed and feel contributes greatly to workplace productivity and happy, engaged staff. “Ultimately we love working for people who really care about their brand and work. You can tell really quickly if the business owner really cares. The ones that do can see the value in investing in well-designed spaces for their people.” Hospitality design is another focus at Designwell. The studio has contributed significantly to the Hamilton scene with projects such as MADE, Mr Pickles, Duck Island & Banhmi to name a few. “We’re working on the public bar and bistro at Hamilton’s new Regional Theatre, which is a super-exciting project to undertake.” Alexander says Hamilton’s CBD in particular has a significant number of old buildings, with empty untapped spaces just waiting for revitalisation. “Another project we’ve undertaken is to work with Chow-Hill Architects on Fonterra’s new offices in South Block. That’s been a very engaging job that we’ve thoroughly enjoyed.” Growing up on a farm where he was encouraged to ‘make stuff’ all the time sowed the seeds that led to his professional designer career. “We were surrounded by music and the arts and had plenty of room. It was a wonderful upbringing.” Designwell is also intent on supporting the next generation of designers by offering an active internship programme, taking in a design student each summer. “I think a great deal of what drives us is that this region has great businesses. “We’re really privileged to work with cool people doing cool things and we get to help their dreams happen.” Your bespoke cabinetry specialist. We design and craft custom cabinetry for architectural builds, commercial fit-outs, and home renovations — bringing fresh life and lasting value to every space www.kingandco.nz +64 21 051 3786 hello@kingandco.nz
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