We’re grateful to SAM Property Ltd and the wider consultant team for their partnership throughout the project.
We’re proud to share that the Windowmakers Building in Wainui has been recognised with a 2025 NZ Commercial Project Silver Award in the Industrial category – celebrating innovation, adaptability, and excellence in design.
The 5,200m² facility is a standout example of sustainable adaptive reuse. Once a horse arena, and later a film studio, the building has been thoughtfully reimagined into a state-of-the-art manufacturing hub for Windowmakers Ltd. Rather than demolish and rebuild, the project embraced the existing structure, significantly reducing construction waste, embodied carbon, and the demand for new materials. Demonstrating a practical and environmentally conscious approach to industrial architecture.
The architectural response focused on consolidating operations across a single, highly efficient site. The design integrates factory, office, cafeteria, and on-site apartment spaces to support staff in a semi-rural location while streamlining workflow and energy use. Delivered on a tight timeline, the project involved a staged consent process and robust coordination across teams.
The design approach celebrates both functionality and refinement. Expansive glazing floods the workspace with natural light and showcases Windowmakers’ window systems. The exterior features clean lines and subtle forms that complement the surrounding rural landscape, while the interiors maintain a strong connection to the outdoors, delivering a light-filled, efficient, and comfortable environment for staff.
We’re grateful to SAM Property Ltd and the wider consultant team for their partnership throughout the project.
