Iplenish Day Spa

By Archimedia

Profile
Iplenish Day Spa banner

Archimedia responded by creating a modern insertion that sits cradled within the traditional interior of the historic Post Office. The fit-out floats within the existing space with minimal intersection with the existing floor, wall and ceiling surfaces. A private light well is created on the street side of the insertion, allowing the original external wall to be perceived intact and uninterrupted.

The form of the insertion is deliberately organic and sensuous and details are suppressed to contrast with the geometric heritage mouldings and trim. The form was created direct from a 3D model creating frames similar to a boat building methodology and then overlaid with plywood and specialist interior plaster.

The spaces clinical spaces are kept crisp with a cleanness of detail to reinforce this as a medical facility, not just a pampering clinic. However, the relax and hospitality rooms introduce a great richness of colour and texture, derived from the heritage context.

The internal materials selected are natural and tactile and invite exploration of the surface as an representation of skin.

Ponsonby,  2004

Project Team

  • Lindsay Mackie
  • Russell Pinel

Photography:  Archimedia

Press & Awards

  • DINZ Best Awards Spatial Design Retail 2006

Professionals used in
Iplenish Day Spa

Archimedia
Archimedia
Architects

More projects from
Archimedia

View more

About the
Professional

Archimedia is a New Zealand architecture practice with NZRAB and Green Star accredited staff, offering design services in the disciplines of architecture, interiors and ecology.

Archimedia uses the word “ecology” to extend the concept of sustainability to urban design and master planning and integrates this holistic strategy into every project.

Archimedia prioritises client project requirements, functionality, operational efficiency, feasibility, and programme. Once these fundamentals are soundly established, Archimedia pursues a sculptural architecture expressive of individual or collective identity.

Identity

  • Archimedia practices architecture as “material identity” – a crafted expression of individual or collective “identity” – embodying a synthesis of people, place and time.
  • Archimedia investigates “identity” with each client and endows buildings with a perceptible meaning that expresses this “identity” – the philosophical parti for all Archimedia projects.
  • Archimedia respects all cultures and their protocols and the fundamental connectedness of all humanity.

Human Experience

  • Archimedia is ambitious for the betterment of both humankind and the environment.
  • Archimedia approachs design with the intent that human beings register an “experience” of architecture which uplifts their daily existence.

Environment

  • Archimedia strives for “beauty”, the exceptional and the inspirational in each and every commission, irrespective of budget.
  • Archimedia believes in tectonics – a poetic configuration of land, space and structure.
  • Archimedia believes in positive intervention – sustainability that enhances eco-systems.

Process

  • Archimedia believes that the very best process and the very best technology are critical contributors in our quest for the exceptional.
  • Archimedia invests resources to create a better design solution.

Collaboration

  • Archimedia believes in collaboration between equals and the power of teamwork.
  • Archimedia's staff are consultative by nature and use processes that encourage user decision making wherever possible.