15 Apr 2025
Brandon House is a modern reinvention of an existing 1960s office building in Wellington’s CBD, with Studio Pacific transforming the structure through sustainable design, mass timber additions, and a striking new façade.
Brandon House shows how existing buildings can be thoughtfully revitalised to meet the demands of a modern city. Located in Wellington’s central business district, the project transforms a 1960s office block into a contemporary commercial hub, enhancing both its performance and visual identity.
The project began with a clear goal — to retain the existing structure while enhancing its value and functionality through targeted upgrades. Studio Pacific took on the challenge, applying careful planning and value-add design to deliver a building that is both modern and sustainable.
A key aspect of the design approach was the use of advanced timber technology. Three additional storeys were constructed using mass timber, offering a lightweight and low-carbon alternative to conventional construction. This not only increased capacity of the existing building structure but also supported sustainability goals for the project.
The building’s façade underwent a significant transformation. The original exterior was replaced with a flush-glazed unitised glass system, improving energy performance and introducing a refined, contemporary appearance. Vertical elements reinforce the structural rhythm of the building, while curved corners soften its profile, enhancing its presence in the cityscape.
The project also included seismic strengthening to ensure long-term resilience. Internally, the spaces were reconfigured to create a more welcoming and functional environment. The lobby features a material palette that blends traditional and modern elements, creating a sense of timeless sophistication. New end-of-trip facilities and improved accessibility support the evolving needs of tenants and users alike.
Brandon House demonstrates the value of working with what already exists. By retaining and reimagining the original structure, the project brings renewed life to Wellington’s CBD — setting a strong benchmark for adaptive reuse and sustainable design.
Brandon House is a modern reinvention of an existing 1960s office building in Wellington’s CBD.
The lobby of Brandon House features a material palette that blends traditional and modern elements, creating a sense of timeless sophistication.