Grounded in the concept of ‘a journey towards light and wellness,’ Te Waka Aorangi brings together cultural insight, thoughtful design and robust materials. Melteca and Laminex Formica Laminate in Seasoned Oak help create a calm, durable interior that balances warmth with visual continuity.
Te Waka Aorangi Child Wellness Centre is a space of care and calm, created for tamariki in the Bay of Plenty who have neurodevelopmental, behavioural and mental health needs. Named by local iwi Ngāti Ranginui, the centre’s identity is rooted in the narrative ‘a journey towards light and wellness’ – a story that’s reflected throughout the interior.
Jigsaw Architects responded to the brief with empathy and imagination. “Our design response was ‘through the eyes of a child,’” says director Lance Adolph. Drawing on international healthcare research that supports integrating nature into healing environments, the design shifts away from clinical conventions to offer a warm, welcoming space where children feel at ease.
Materiality that balances durability and care
To support this vision, the architects specified Melteca panels in Seasoned Oak throughout the centre. Full-height wall panels and playful curved seating add a sense of rhythm and tactility, while ensuring long-term durability.
“The specification demanded materials that could withstand commercial cleaning and accommodate concealed fixing systems for full panel replacement if required,” says Adolph. “Melteca provided both performance and visual warmth.”
Bringing narrative to life through detail
The timber-grain surface supports the nature-based narrative, creating a cohesive backdrop for calm, child-friendly spaces. At reception, Laminex Formica Laminate in Seasoned Oak delivers a durable, hard-wearing finish – ideal for a desk designed to endure heavy use while retaining its appearance.
The curved counter, rounded cutouts add a playful edge detail – achieved by drilling through to reveal the black substrate – showcase the versatility of Laminex Formica Laminate in bespoke applications. The designers were able carry through the same décor through to the wall lining, one of the benefits of Laminex’s mix and match collections.
Enduring performance for a public facility
The same Melteca finish ensures design consistency in the kitchen and utility areas, while also meeting stringent fire performance requirements for public buildings.
With thoughtful design and the right materials, Te Waka Aorangi stands as an environment that supports clinical function and emotional well-being – an uplifting, enduring space for care.
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PROJECT CREDITS
Architect: Jigsaw Architects
Builder: CBC Construction
Photographer: Amanda Aitken Photography
Writer: Folio
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