A comprehensive review of workplace strategy underpinned Chow:Hill’s award-winning modern design of Awarua, the new Gisborne District Council administration building. The future-focused council service centre, which accommodates over 220 staff members on one level, was a collaborative project between Chow:Hill, Gisborne District Council, Gisborne Holdings and Lardelli Arts.

Through an interactive stakeholder survey and collaborative consultation process, the Chow:Hill design team tested a range of development options with the Gisborne District Council team. A particular focus was the transitioning of all staff into a modern working and customer service environment.

Running in parallel to this process, the project's cultural design narratives were developed under the direction of tohunga, Sir Derek Lardelli, cultural design director from Lardelli Arts, who guided the cultural influences incorporated into the design. Particular emphasis was placed on the history of the Tairāwhiti region and the diversity of its community.