Designworks focused on delivering a creative guest experience for Crowne Plaza Christchurch based around being welcomed into the property, and how that flowed into relaxation, eating and working across the entire hotel, says Designworks architect Naomi Rushmer.

‘As the city’s largest hotel, attracting locals and those from across the globe, the design needed to deliver an exciting and unique experience maximising the 360-degree views of the Port Hills, Southern Alps and Pacific Ocean, says Rushmer.

Eye-catching features around the 204-room hotel include a lobby space featuring timber slats wrapping the walls and a large freeform mesh ceiling feature, inspired by the winding Avon River, glowing over the reception pods.