Repurposing History Mason Bros Warehouse Renovation by Warren and Mahoney

The Mason Bros project marks the transformation of a character warehouse into a vibrant three-story commercial development within the Wynyard Quarter Innovation Precinct. Warren and Mahoney spearheaded the initial reference design and masterplan for the Innovation Precinct and orchestrated the adaptive reuse of the 1920s warehouse in collaboration with Precinct Properties NZ.

Preserving Heritage

The maritime legacy of the two-story warehouse, once a hub for engineering and shipbuilding, is preserved in its red brick envelope and distinctive sawtooth roof structure.

Conceptual Design

The design approach revolves around suspending a highly reflective glazed object within the existing volume, creating a striking contrast while accentuating the warehouse’s original features. The dramatic sawtooth roof floods the internal lane with southern light, serving as a central circulation spine and blurring the boundaries between old and new.

Spatial Innovation

Spanning approximately 5700m2 across three levels, the project challenges conventional commercial paradigms with triple-height spaces and spatial fluidity. Public lanes surrounding the building foster urban activation, while contemporary glazing elements offer glimpses into the enigmatic interior.

Embracing Authenticity

Retaining the character building fabric maintains a link to the site’s industrial past, influencing the architectural language of neighboring structures. The atrium doubles as an event space, accommodating up to 80 seated guests and featuring bleacher seating and a projector screen for presentations.

Materiality and Sustainability

Simple materials such as blackened steel and concrete pay homage to the building’s roots, while pops of color and timber accents infuse warmth into the space. Designed in alignment with the Wynyard Quarter Sustainability Framework, the building has earned a Green Star ‘6-Star’ built rating, exemplifying its commitment to environmental responsibility.

Warren and Mahoney’s Mason Bros Warehouse Renovation seamlessly blends heritage preservation with contemporary design, breathing new life into a historic landmark while setting new standards for sustainable development.