Cheshire Architects’ Emily Priest talks us through Auckland’s elegant new function rooms for hire.
So Emily, what was Cheshire Architects’ intention for these spaces bookable for everything from meetings to private parties? We designed the spaces — The Lounge, The Wine Library, The Chef’s Library and The Pupuke Room — to be as welcoming for a couple enjoying an intimate breakfast as they are for a group around the chef’s table experiencing an exquisite dégustation menu by executive chef Tom Hishon.
Can you explain the thinking behind the colour and material palettes? We wanted The Libraries to have a unique fingerprint that could never be repeated. With Aoteroa’s landscape as our muse, we combined warm timber and exposed brick with soft, neutral linens, terracotta and lush green woollen rugs, hand-tooled side tables and leather-backed chairs, alongside numerous handcrafted ceramics.
Who are some of the local artisans whose work is featured here? The Libraries is filled with as many beautiful pieces as we could gather, both our own bespoke designs and objects made in collaboration with local creatives, including ceramicists Jane Burn, Kristen Calder, Rachel Carter and Elena Renker; weaver Ruth Castle; painter and woodturner Peter Edmonds; woodturners Walk in the Park; glass artists Monmouth Glass Studio; and curator of Ponsonby store and gallery Public Record Yuka O’Shannessy. It was an absolute highlight having such talented people working alongside us.
thehotelbritomart.com
Interview Alice Lines
Photography Sam Hartnett