Alex Wang HQ by Wonder Group

Retaining the charm and rich character of a forgotten heritage building in Auckland’s Freemans Bay was integral to design studio Wonder Group’s vision for the headquarters of financial advisory company Alex Wang.

The distinctive building was transformed to embody the vision of the company’s founder, Alex Wang, beyond just his offering as an advisor. “People are drawn to Alex and his personality,” says Buster Caldwell, director of Wonder Group. “And I knew the space would naturally reflect his character.”

“The brief was to change that initial sense of intimidation people felt when walking into most financial advisory offices and to make the space more personal.”

Set within what could best be described as a storage shed, little is known or documented about the history of the building or its past owners. With an arched roof resembling that of an airplane hangar (although much smaller in scale), the building remains one of the last of its kind in Auckland. It was its unique facade and silhouette that first made Alex connect to the building and see the potential that others did not.

The design is pared back and incorporates personal touches throughout. An avid art collector, Alex wanted to integrate some of the pieces from his own home into the office, seeing the space as an invitation into his world. “The brief was to change that initial sense of intimidation people felt when walking into most financial advisory offices and to make the space more personal and resemble a residential setting,” says Buster. The result is a considered combination of the building’s original character and the practicality required within a modern workspace.

“Alex brought reference books of the type of space he wanted to create, so it was about finding the right combination of texture, wabi-sabi and a soft calmness.”

The spaces were also deliberately kept minimal to create a gallery-like setting. “Alex has spent a lot of time in Japan and also loves the simplicity of Nordic design,” says Buster. “In our first meeting, he brought reference books with him of the type of space he wanted to create, so it was all about finding the right combination of texture, wabi-sabi and a soft calmness.” A subdued lighting approach combines with the restrained palette of finishes to bring warmth and create an enduring foundation. The existing timber floor was restored and, where it couldn’t be repaired, concrete was poured to express the detail instead of concealing it. The overall colour palette was intended to create calm. “With walls washed in dolomite plaster, we were able to create the perfect balance of old and new,” says Buster.

Alex Wang HQ brings restraint and softness to a financial service setting. The design approach is obvious from the initial interaction with the building, where each visitor physically engages with the custom folded-steel door handle. Although only a small gesture, the door acts as a subtle precursor to the experience to come.

Interior design by Wonder Group. Cabinetry by Gartshore.