The redevelopment of 41 Elizabeth Street has transformed a former 1960s Para Rubber retail warehouse into a vibrant new commercial hub in the city centre. Led by Marra Construction and Architecture F+D=A, the project demonstrates how reinvestment in existing city assets can bring new energy and business activity to the city centre.

Located opposite the landmark Thirty Eight Elizabeth development with the revitalised Farmers mall and an upgraded streetscape that features pedestrian-friendly spaces, planting, and play areas, 41 Elizabeth Street sits within a rapidly improving urban environment that’s now more people-focused and commercially vibrant.

Visually, the building stands out with striking variegated green porcelain tiles wrapping its facade, and a curved feature window facing Elizabeth Street. The project’s flexible floor plan has evolved with its tenants. There are street-level retail spaces and at the rear, office space and covered parking. A double-height entry lobby lined with curved tiled walls leads to a timber-clad staircase and the upper-level offices. While upstairs, a newly added balcony (built over the carpark garage), connect workspaces with the outdoors.

“The client requested a unique building that would stand out in Tauranga’s CBD, while being practical, affordable, and leasable,” says Margaret Douglas, Director at F+D=A. “The building itself was relatively innovative, as it was completely custom,” she says, noting the approach was to work with the existing bones of the building but completely refurbishing the roof, aluminium joinery and interior.

Margaret says the strong partnership between client, architect and builder was key. “The original version of the building was remarkably like the final product. F+D=A and Marra worked closely together in the design phase to make sure we could deliver in line with the client’s expectations. There were tweaks and adjustments along the way, but the big-ticket items were locked down at the concept phase.”

A new chapter for Vitruvius

The unmissable orange signage for the building’s anchor tenant, Vitruvius, is now up, nicely contrasting with new green exterior.

A New Zealand–owned, multi-disciplinary engineering consultancy, Vitruvius provides a range of expertise, including three waters, transport advisory design and delivery, rail, land development, and project management. “Relocating to 41 Elizabeth Street, marks an exciting chapter for Vitruvius,” says Charlie Sherratt, Vitruvius Business Leader. “Even though it’s just a few steps away from our previous office in Durham Street, we feel much closer to our clients.”

Inside, the team is enjoying the light-filled workspace that has retained original concrete floors and exposed beams, adding character and connecting the building’s past with its contemporary fit-out. “One of our favourite features is the private rear deck – completely hidden from the street and perfectly positioned to soak up the sun.”