Following the seismic events of February 22nd 2011, Christchurch’s City Mall, between Colombo Street and The Bridge of Remembrance, was devastated with the loss of all but five buildings, as well as four human lives.

Emerging from the Central City Retailers Group and driven by prominent property owners, Re:START The Heart Trust was formed, who initially in consultation with Leigh’s Construction, The Buchan Group and Structex Harvard, created the concept behind a new ‘temporary’ retail environment for inner city Christchurch.

Ballantynes, the only remaining inner city department store, approached The Buchan Group to undertake the Interior Design of their relocated Contemporary Lounge. Housed within twelve containers our brief was to provide a simple design while retaining the original Contemporary Lounge atmosphere. Our objective: to create a unique, low risk, low cost interior for this well known brand.

With limited budget the brief included using existing undamaged joinery/displays from the damaged Contemporary Lounge in Ballantynes. Within six days from the initial client meeting, the brief was defined, onsite measure undertaken, concepts/details confirmed, construction commenced on site. A centrally divided space housing female product at one end and male at the other gives a balanced layout allowing easy retail flow. With a low ceiling, Resene Black White was painted on wall and ceiling surfaces to lighten the space and highlight the product. Bright colours on the exterior in keeping with the Re:START scheme added contrast and intensity to the new Contemporary Lounge.

Interior Designer: Charlotte Cochrane