Sensory Richness – Origine by Jack McKinney Architects

From its enticing atmosphere to its proffered cuisine, Origine articulates the French culinary experience. Designed by Jack McKinney Architects with a distinctly European character, the restaurant sits in contrast to its Auckland surrounds. Enriched by oak flooring from Forté, the space captures the imagination and warms the heart.

Located in Commercial Bay in the Auckland CBD, Origine overlooks the historic Ferry Building and the waters of Waitemata Harbour. The restaurant represents the third fine dining project completed by Jack McKinney Architects in the local area and, by its distinguished nature, it evidences the studio’s skill in developing architectural narratives. Structurally, the design of Origine forms a financially-viable means of accommodating a large volume of people, while experientially, the interior contributes to a curated guest experience, establishing a soothing ambience and complementing the French cuisine on offer from acclaimed Head Chef Ben Bayly.

Structurally, the design of Origine forms a financially-viable means of accommodating a large volume of people, while experientially, the interior contributes to a curated guest experience, establishing a soothing ambience and complementing the French cuisine on offer from acclaimed Head Chef Ben Bayly.

Origine retains floor-to-ceiling louvre windows that flood the interior with light. Jack McKinney Architects gently incorporates the windows into the redefined interior, mirroring their verticality with oversized pendant lights. Engaging with the ethical practices of the restaurant, the studio also injects sustainable elements into the space, such as unique tabletops made from recycled keyboard tiles. A sense of order is subtly fostered with seamless counters chosen in lieu of bulky serveries and banquette seating replacing handfuls of individual chairs. As an alternative to a dividing wall – which might have formed a disruptive addition to the heritage building – the back of a banquette delineates space.

Using a restrained materiality, Jack McKinney Architects establishes the French character of the Origine interior. References to the design inspiration – Maison de Verre – include Austral Venetian glass bricks flanking the entrance, the red leather banquette seating, Thonet bentwood furniture and solid French oak floors. Sourced from Forté In Marron Oak, the floor is an aged brown colour with a lightly brushed texture enhancing the natural grain pattern of the wood. The architects sought out Forté for its combination of aesthetic depth and functional longevity; the durability of the surface owes to a six-millimetre European oak wear layer. Additionally, the Forté PureMatte lacquer finish provides scratch-resistance with a low sheen, ensuring that the floor can withstand the physical impact of hosting many people over many years to come.

Jack McKinney Architects establishes the French character of the Origine interior. References to the design inspiration – Maison de Verre – include Austral Venetian glass bricks flanking the entrance, the red leather banquette seating, Thonet bentwood furniture and solid French oak floors.

Working within a dramatic architectural envelope, Jack McKinney Architects creates the ideal setting for an elevated culinary experience. Underpinned by the warmth and character of Forté oak flooring, Origine sees glass, leather and timber respond positively to natural light, creating a landscape of sensory richness.