Fearon Hay Architects reveal the vision for Auckland’s newest luxury destination.
When Faradays opens its doors, customers will step into a department store unlike anything previously seen in New Zealand.
Designed by internationally acclaimed Fearon Hay Architects, the three-level destination carefully balances contemporary luxury with the remarkable character of Auckland’s historic Milne & Choyce building. Every intervention has been conceived to celebrate the building’s heritage while creating an experience that feels unmistakably modern.
From the outset, the ambition was never simply to restore a landmark, but to create a destination worthy of its place in the heart of the city.
At the heart of the design are dramatic vertical atriums that draw customers into the building and connect all three levels. Anchoring the space is a sculptural staircase, encouraging visitors to explore the store as a sequence of experiences rather than a collection of departments.
"We wanted to embrace the existing character of the building but also create a vertical connection between the floors with a strong anchoring presence.”
“A space that is globally inspired while remaining deeply connected to Auckland. Beautifully balanced – modernity within a stunning heritage building, refined yet inviting.”
Materials have been selected for their luxurious depth and permanence. Rich stone, warm timber, finely crafted metalwork and generous natural light create an atmosphere that feels calm, tactile and enduring – qualities that define both the architecture and the brands it will house.
Rather than overwhelming visitors with spectacle, the interiors have been intentionally restrained. The architecture provides a quiet backdrop that allows fashion, design and craftsmanship to take centre stage, while moments of scale and surprise unfold naturally throughout the journey.
Each floor has been designed with its own distinct rhythm and character. From contemporary culture and lifestyle on the lower ground, to beauty and fashion at street level, through to luxury fashion and destination hospitality above, the experience unfolds intuitively, inviting discovery at every turn.
The result is more than a department store. It is a space designed not only for shopping, but for gathering, dining, discovering and spending time.
For Fearon Hay, whose work is recognised internationally for its clarity, precision and enduring quality, Faradays represents one of the country’s most significant retail architecture projects in decades.
As the vision becomes reality, these first images offer a glimpse of what awaits: a department store designed not simply for today, but for generations to come.
"A successful Faradays to us creates an enduring spatial offering on Queen Street, for Auckland city, that people feel like they can come to on a daily basis and on very special occasions. We want people to feel connected to and invited to the space.”
