mckaY

McKay (previously McKay Electrical) was established in 1936 in Dargaville, and has a long-standing reputation and history in the Northland region. It has been a privilege to be involved in their refurbishment of 38 Water Street, Whangarei which has been their National Headquarters since the 1960s.

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The building was constructed in 1966 with concrete columns, beams and midfloor with timber trusses and a decorative exposed pebble panel finish to the exterior. The 2-storey structure sits adjacent to Cafler Park, the rose gardens, and inner-city stream, an integral part of the Water Street and inner-city landscape.

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The building was in original 1960s condition when we became involved in the project and across 4 construction stages the building was transformed into a modern working environment to suit the busy and energetic team. The staging approach allowed the McKay team to continue to operate from the building and work spaces were adjusted to accommodate construction.

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The building underwent a full exterior repaint to integrate the corporate identity of the company – Black, White and Copper whilst also maintaining the buildings iconic design elements. McKay incorporated a new solar array to the north facing roof to maximise their renewable power supply and run parts of the building off the grid.

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Open plan work environments were incorporated across Admin, Engineering, and Executive divisions with integrated support spaces that facilitate meetings, services, training, and electrical innovation.

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The design provides a vibrant, light filled, professional environment while optimizing energy efficiency and interior comfort. The revitalised office building provides a blend of the historic charm of its era whilst incorporating contemporary amenities making it the perfect home for this thriving and forward-thinking company.