MBIE engaged us to design a comprehensive visual system for the refurbished Bowen House, which was to be renamed Te Iho. Central to the project was a close, collaborative partnership with the Mana Whenua lead, ensuring that the building’s design celebrated and respected the cultural narratives of the land. Our approach aimed to intertwine heritage, storytelling, and contemporary functionality throughout the building.

The project required more than just functional graphics and wayfinding. The design needed to reflect the historical significance of the site, honour Māori cultural narratives, and integrate seamlessly into the building’s refurbishment. At the same time, the system had to be clear, accessible, and compliant with New Zealand Government standards for signage and wayfinding. Balancing cultural richness with usability presented a unique design challenge.

Working hand-in-hand with Mana Whenua, we drew inspiration from cultural narratives such as He Ūranga, the convergence of land and sea, which guided the shaping of the building’s visual identity. The glazing system was designed to ripple across internal and external windows, bringing vitality, movement, and energy into meeting rooms and shared spaces. Signage and wayfinding were carefully developed with a clear set of iconography, ensuring intuitive navigation while embedding cultural storytelling. Every graphic element became an expression of place, history, and identity, creating a cohesive, meaningful experience for everyone moving through Te Iho Bowen House.