▲ Courtyard
The concept behind the B: Hive office building was initiated by Smales Farm as a pioneering move to transform a 20th-century office park into a 21st-century livable city center. This building represents a new model of office space—essentially the opposite of traditional office buildings. It’s designed to promote flexibility, collaboration, and community involvement, attracting startups, small businesses, and individual entrepreneurs. Currently, B: Hive houses around 100 independent companies.
This five-story building shares a close connection with Goodside, a new hospitality area designed by Izzard, located on the first floor. The integration creates a seamless transition between the public spaces and the interior of B: Hive. The first floor serves as an event reception area, equipped with a conference hall and several small meeting rooms accessible to the Farm and the surrounding community.
▲ North elevation view
▲ Sectional view
The atrium serves as a central feature that fosters the growth of new work communities. Positioned near the entrance, the staircase encourages occupants to explore the entire building by foot rather than using the elevator situated at the building’s edge. This design promotes social interaction, spontaneous meetings, and active participation. The floors offer complete flexibility, with movable walls along the perimeter, creating a collaborative space around the atrium for individuals and groups alike.
Prioritizing employee health, the building’s design introduces fresh air into the atrium, supporting a mixed ventilation system enhanced by facade-insulated chimneys. A large, bright skylight crowns the atrium, allowing natural sunlight to penetrate deep into the building. The adjacent staircase provides an inviting path for movement, contributing to the occupants’ energy throughout the day.
Collaborative Work Spaces
Project Drawings
▲ General layout plan
▲ First floor plan
▲ Standard floor plan
Project Information
Project Type: Office Building
Location: Auckland, New Zealand
Architectural Design: BVN, Jasmax
Area: 18,680 m²
Year: 2018
Photographer: John Gollings
Manufacturers: Artek, Autex, Dimond, HAY, Herman Miller, Jardan, RC+D, Regupol America, Schiavello, Tarkett, Wilkhahn, Mokum, Resene, Artedomus, Autodesk, Simon James Design, InStyle, Astra Walker, Robert McNeel & Associates, Portugal Cork
Lead Architect: BVN in association with Jasmax
Owner: Smales Farm Corporate Services Limited
Service Engineering: WSP
Structural Engineering: BGT Structures
Mechanical Engineering: eCubed
Facade Engineering: Lautrec
Civil Engineering: Harrison Grierson
Construction Consultant: Leighs Construction
Quantity Surveyor Consultant: White Associates
Project Manager Consultant: Xigo
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