Ārepa HQ
Morningside, New Zealand
Interior Design
Furniture & Object Curation
Ārepa makes scientifically proven, natural brain food designed by a world-leading neuroscientist. This fast-growing New Zealand start-up has spent the last four years hot-desking around Auckland. In 2021, co-founders Angus Brown and Zachary Robinson decided it was time to have their own space, one that reflects their brand ethos, values and culture, and a space they could be proud of. They approached Studio 11:11 to create a tailored workplace in the newly developed The Chambers building in Morningside. The space would be for their team of 15 to work, host visitors and share the Ārepa journey.
Studio 11:11 set out to design a space for the Ārepa whanau that encourages creativity, tranquillity and contentedness, a space to ‘Be Calm, Think Clear(ly)' in alignment with the company’s purpose. The intent was to create a space that evokes a positive physiological response in people who use it, specifically to reduce stress levels and enhance mental performance. This has been achieved by maximising the effect of natural light through use of light colours, transparency, textured surfaces and shadow. Importance has been placed on creating spaciousness by reducing visual noise and creating a functional space that caters to their needs as a company, with no clutter.
Ārepa works at the nexus between nature, neuroscience and cutting edge technology. In response to this, the interior design pairs natural, raw and rough cut materials next to hypermodern, sleek materials with a machine-made look. Heavily textured walls, raw concrete and exposed timber ceilings create the bones of the space. Brushed aluminium joinery with highly refined detailing, machine precision edges and fine proportions sit comfortably next to solid rough sawn macrocarpa plinths in the entrance lobby. The lobby serves two purposes, it gives visitors a visual snapshot of the brand story and provides a space for staff to serve up a cold Ārepa to guests upon arrival.
Interior Design & Furniture Curation: Studio 11:11
Builder: Urry & Burgess Construction
Cabinetry: Saint Leo
Photographer: James K Lowe
