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Iconic Auckland store gets $3m makeover
August 1, 2012
Iconic Auckland store gets $3m makeover
One of Queen Street’s landmark heritage buildings is having a $3 million-plus makeover.
Whitcoulls is refurbishing its flagship Whitcoulls Corner store located on the junction of Queen and Victoria Streets in Auckland.
Work is already underway within the 129 year old building, according to Whitcoulls managing director Ian Draper.
“The work programme is scheduled to ensure we can remain open for business throughout the renovations. The plan is to have the majority of the work complete by the end of October in time for the busy Christmas period.”
Mr Draper says the interior plan of the 2,000 square metre store will remain much the same, following a change to the layout late last year.
“There are new escalators and carpets, as well as lighting, fixtures and fittings. Our ultimate goal is for this store to be the best book and stationery store in the southern hemisphere,” Mr Draper says.
“At three floors it’s certainly the biggest and it will definitely be the brightest star in our portfolio once the refurbishment is complete.”
On the ground floor the main focus is on books. DVDs and magazines are on the mezzanine level, together with children’s books, games and toys. The first level is home to an extensive range of commercial stationery to service the many small businesses in the CBD.
The flagship store will continue to be the venue of choice for book launches and author signings.
In 2011 Whitcoulls was returned to New Zealand ownership when James Pascoe Group purchased the business.
“Being back under New Zealand ownership enables us to turn a heritage landmark building into a flagship store, a development we are very proud of. We are also relocating our support office to above the store, which enables us to be more hands on in the business,” Mr Draper says.
The company has worked closely with Auckland Council and the Historic Places Trust to ensure all historical features of the building are protected.
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