BritoMart (Auckland, New Zealand)

After Hamilton, we rode back to Auckland to meet with a representative, Sara, from Cooper and Company. The firm is responsible for developing, owning, and managing a Green Star 5 design facility in downtown. The building complex was originally constructed for residential; however, because of the economy crash, they were re-marketed as commercial space. The building designs were flexible enough to accommodate luxury condominiums and/or lease-able commercial offices. With the complex still months away from completion, the entire space has already been leased by WestPac and other large firms in Auckland.

It was easy to see how the complex received a 5 star rating using the Australian Greenstar rating system. They had carpets that were tiled and made with organic materials. The complex is “floating” above a train station, which created many great architectural puzzles that were all solved through Cooper and Company and Hawkins Construction working in concert. Every office will have a view of the harbor and well-lit, spacious cubicle areas. There is a workout facility on the top floor, also with an amazing view. I could only imagine working in such a facility.