The Botanist – Cafe, Bar and Florist

In a previous life The Botanist used to be a car park. The concrete floor, ceiling and walls still remain, including car park markings and large concrete columns and beams. Our client decided to place a cafe and florist into this tough environment. MA Studio Architects worked closely with the client to select warm materials, design the florist display and allow a naturally sunny disposition to offset the ample concrete surrounds.

The new forms inserted into the space were clad with American oak timber, providing a richness and warmth which contrast against the abundance of concrete surfaces. Concealed LED lights were used to enhance the timber and highlight the contrast.

We embraced the nature of the space – concrete floor grinders worked around the markings on the floor, graffiti and old paint was retained, exposed pipes were painted to express them and add colour, new beer taps were made out of steel pipe and the old concrete ceiling and walls were cleared sealed, retaining their character.

This cafe and bar has now been operating for 5 years, with lovely flowers and delicious food working well alongside the concrete and timber while providing a strong contrast and a bit colour.

What the NZ Herald says…

“We were very impressed with how well The Botanist makes the most of being carved out of a corner of an underground parking garage. This inner-city cafe/bar/florist feels big, bright and modern. The space itself is really well-designed and has a great, slightly European feel. Plus you can pick up a bunch of beautiful flowers before you leave.”

Builder: Salamander Build
www.salamanderbuild.co.nz
Photos: Wendy Brandon
www.wendybrandon.nz
The Botanist
www.botanist.co.nz