Located in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour Precinct, the five-star QT Hotel is a prime example of adaptive reuse, transforming an outdated 20-year-old office building into a stylish 150-room boutique hotel and dynamic hospitality destination. Jasmax worked closely with QT’s long-time interior design partner, Nic Graham & Associates, to create a design that embodies the hotel brand’s stylish yet quirky identity while maximising the potential of the original building.
A metaphor for the building’s transformation, the design draws inspiration from an oyster concealing the unexpected treasure of a pearl. Internally, the original building was stripped back to expose its raw concrete skeleton, creating a striking contrast with the luxurious and quirky interiors that now define the theatrical guest experience. The hotel’s signature restaurant, Esther, enhances its appeal as a vibrant waterfront destination.
The business case for an adaptive reuse strategy was driven by the building’s prime location, expansive floor area and structural suitability. Additional floors were added to optimise the development proposal, with the former basement carpark converted to house staff offices. The new rooftop bar offers spectacular views over the Viaduct and Waitematā Harbour.
To meet the client’s brief, 35 unique guestroom types were developed, incorporating unconventional, asymmetrical layouts, including curved walls and other creative space-saving features. Combined with the interior hallmarks of the QT brand, the result is a bespoke and intricately detailed design that adds to the hotel’s distinctive character.
