Bell Gully

In the waterfront CBD hubs of Auckland and Wellington, RCP’s recent fit-out projects for New Zealand's oldest law firm presented challenges and opportunities. With the firm’s lease expirations looming, RCP helped relocate and revitalise Bell Gully’s workspaces at the fresh waterfront locations. 

The projects resulted from Bell Gully’s decision to transition from traditional offices to more open-plan, modern, and efficient spaces that aimed to foster productivity and reflect the firm's prestigious reputation in a more contemporary environment. Bell Gully approached RCP to manage the project, including design, procurement of the fit-out contractor, construction, and contract management. 

Wellington

Originally scheduled to start after Auckland, the Wellington fit-out located at new premises on the Wellington waterfront was 1,544m² and was rescheduled and delivered first. Starting in late 2021, the fit-out progressed successfully to accommodate 65+ staff across two floors with minimal relocation disruption to their operations. It was completed in quarter two of 2022. 

Auckland

Commencing in July 2023, the Auckland office – located in the prime location and newly refurbished Deloitte Centre at One Queen Street included: 

• 4,149m² over 3.5 floors  

• inter-floor stairs between 2 levels  

• timber ceilings & chandelier

• a partner’s lounge  

• commercial kitchen  

The integrated Auckland fit-out faced several base building challenges base building (e.g., discrepancies between existing drawings and onsite discoveries, locations of base build services clashing with fit-out service requirements, etc.). However, these hurdles were overcome through well-considered design adjustments and proactive measures (such as early material delivery using the base build crane necessitated by limited goods lift access), and the client’s 260 Auckland staff were successfully relocated.  

Experience from the Wellington fit-out also proved valuable as the team used their lessons learned to fine-tune joinery designs and upgraded acoustic insulation. 

Significant non-project challenges were also faced throughout the re-fit, including navigating the COVID-19 pandemic and the Auckland floods. Despite this, the team adapted swiftly and adjusted strategies to meet evolving circumstances. RCP’s strong on-site presence also facilitated real-time problem-solving and strengthened collaborative relationships with stakeholders, and the Auckland fit-out was completed in quarter two of 2024. 

Key Success Factors 

Beyond managing the technical aspects, the fit-outs were rooted in relationship-building. By closely engaging with Bell Gully, architects, engineers, and suppliers, a collaborative spirit was fostered that mirrored the client's dedication to excellence. 

Reflecting on the challenges, the team noted that each project presented an opportunity to innovate and elevate standards. RCP’s achievements were defined by delivering functional spaces that embody one of New Zealand’s leading law firm's ethos of professionalism and forward-thinking.