ERCO Case Study: Smart lighting supports 6-Green Star building upgrade in Auckland
November 2025 Case Study
The University of Auckland City Campus sits prominently on the eastern rim of the CBD. Building B201, once the Social Sciences Building, is now a striking gateway to the campus and a hub for activity, visible from busy Symonds Street. Today, it houses the faculties of Education, Social Work, Arts and Creative Arts and Industries in a modern, high-performance space.
From demolition to renewal
Originally marked for demolition as an ‘end-of-life’ structure, the University instead partnered with architects Jasmax to deliver a full refurbishment that surpassed sustainability expectations. By retaining the concrete frame and introducing recycled aluminium cladding, curtain walling, high-performance glazing, and natural ventilation, the project achieved a 6-Green Star rating.
The design prioritised material re-use, reduced carbon emissions and improved energy and water efficiency, creating a building that is both environmentally responsible and visually impressive.
Lighting design
Lighting specialists, Beca, selected ERCO’s Atrium pendants for the main spaces. These luminaires combine powerful, low-glare downlighting with indirect uplight which highlights the patterned ceiling. Warm tones and excellent colour rendering complement the timber beams, while discreet Parscan spotlights accentuate columns and architectural details. A neutral 3500K colour temperature harmonises with the abundant daylight, and flexible controls allow tailored lighting scenes for different activities.
Precision installation
To align with the architectural roof and maintain visual balance, Beca ensured precise suspension along beam lines and worked with ERCO and Channel Partner Energylight to configure a custom wide lens to provide uniform horizontal illumination with minimal fittings – just 24 pendants for the 1,000sqm space at an efficient 2.8W/m2.
Recognition
The project earned a 6-Green Star rating of 93/100 and multiple awards, including the 2024 New Zealand Architects’ Award for Education and the Supreme Excellence Award 2024 in the Property Council’s Auckland Property People Awards. Most importantly, B201 has become one of the University’s most popular meeting spaces.
Energylight
With offices in Auckland and Christchurch, and projects all over New Zealand, ERCO Channel Partner Energylight has a passionate team, committed to working with clients to bring effective commercial lighting solutions to life.
Jasmax
Jasmax is an architecture and design practice with studios across Aotearoa New Zealand and Australia with over 60 years at the forefront of Indigenous and sustainable design.
Beca
Beca is one of Asia Pacific’s largest independent advisory, design and engineering consultancies, with values driven by the ways in which their work impacts everyday lives.
Aotea Group
Servicing New Zealand for over 50 years, Aotea Group boasts a nationwide network of local trade experts.
Channel Partner: Energylight
Architect: Jasmax
Lighting Design: Beca
Engineer: Beca
Electrical Installer: Aotea Group
Photographer: Mark Scowen
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