isite Aotearoa

Our concept, ‘The gateway to our place’, positions each site as a gateway to the region locally and Aotearoa nationally. It’s an invitation to explore enriching experiences through connections to people, place and culture. Our planning strategy unlocks the full potential for a range of locations and functional requirements. Base-builds are pared back, becoming a blank canvas for inspiration. Next a modular framework is added to encompass all functions, retail, display, community engagement and bookings. The framework transforms information to inspiration. Functions are organised to encourage exploration and manāki manuhiri upon arrival. 

Aligning with the Taiki Kaupapa we challenge ourselves to avoid plastic fittings and decarbonise our design. A refined material palette of pine plywood, woca oil and pegboard were selected for their natural and malleable qualities. We worked hard to create both modular frames and storage and retail display accessories, brochure holder, book racks, postcard holders - all except for the odd metal peghook. Accessories are designed to offer a variety of arrangements allowing local owners to configure and reconfigure as desired. Drawing inspiration outdoor technical clothing, pops of orange and stropping ties are playful moments of detailing. 

Plywood was a natural choice, both environmentally and creatively; a workable material that opened opportunities to integrate the new branding for isite which included beautiful Tohū patination. We sought opportunities to integrate this patten within the framework design through routing and laser etching. Custom saveBOARD used for sales counters are an intentional counterpoint to the framework inspiring intuitive wayfinding. Rounded edges encourage the exchange of knowledge between local experts and manuhiri encouraging face to face discussions. The counters themselves are made using a custom saveBOARD betterJOINERY product mixing in unused isite brochures, giving them a new life.