Tupuanuku - University of Canterbury

The Challenge

Designing for 500 students means designing for constant movement, noise, and overlap. Spaces need to flex from quiet study to social interaction, from individual use to large groups—often all at once. The challenge was to create environments that feel open and connected, without becoming chaotic or overwhelming, while standing up to heavy, everyday use.

The Solution

A layered approach to space-making—balancing openness with control.

Robust, hard-wearing furniture and finishes anchor the high-traffic areas, while soft elements like upholstery, booth seating, and acoustic panels introduce comfort and absorb sound. Open-plan dining and social zones are broken down with varied seating types, creating natural pockets for different group sizes and activities.

Colour is used deliberately—muted bases of grey and black provide longevity, while accents of yellow, green, and warm tones inject energy and aid wayfinding.

Across study, social, and recreation spaces, the design creates a rhythm: open → contained → open again—giving users choice without friction.

The Outcome

A living environment that works as hard as its occupants.

Spaces feel active but not overwhelming, social but still functional. Students can move seamlessly from focused work to downtime without leaving the building or disrupting others. The durability of the fitout ensures it holds up under constant use, while the variety of spaces supports different personalities, routines, and ways of living.