Kenehi on Bryce came about from a desire to house Genesis Energy’s 500+ staff under one roof in a dynamic new work environment. The fitout is broken up over three floors linked through a central atrium.  A cafeteria and covered outdoor room on level one opens up over the city’s green belt – a space integral to initiating community within the business. The materials selected respond to the natural environment that Genesis’ generation assets encompass. This creates a personable sense of place connecting Kenehi on Bryce with the Waikato, and greater New Zealand, context.

"A generous pedestrian approach and curving timber-clad walls either side of the entranceway form an encouraging welcome to this new workspace. Inside, it becomes clear that circulation, control of light and the needs of users have been the architect’s primary considerations. The central atrium successfully links old with new, while bringing natural light right into the heart of the deep floor plate. The staffroom, democratically positioned to capture the best views through the trees of Seddon Park, is a moment of delight. The office has an internal street system with central meeting rooms and break-out spaces dividing the large office complex into zones which are generously proportioned and complemented by timber accents and a cheerful colour palette." - NZIA Waikato / Bay of Plenty Jury

The work environment is designed around the principles of flexibility, communication and transparency. There is particular focus on spatial arrangements which promote flexible and adaptable ways of working.  

Workspaces are positioned in particular environments to complete the task at hand. Where possible, workstations have been located closer to a source of natural light for flexibility and connection to the outside environment. Collaborative, meeting and focus spaces are provided through different forms of work activity; whether that be formal in an enclosed acoustic meeting room or informally through a booth space or open loose seating. The interior design had a targeted 5 green star design principle giving it a framework for design decisions.