For nearly 30 years, First Mortgage Trust (FMT) has been helping New Zealanders grow and protect their financial futures through expert property lending and investment management.
When it came time to relocate to their new Tauranga headquarters, FMT partnered with Modern Office and Wingates to create a workplace that reflects their values: professional, enduring, and distinctly New Zealand.
The brief was to design a workspace that felt warm, natural, and modern, while maintaining a strong sense of brand identity. The concept was guided by organic textures and a restrained, contemporary palette inspired by FMT’s brand story.
Timber was thoughtfully integrated into the floors and wall cladding to create an inviting, tactile base that could withstand high traffic. This was paired with patterned acoustic panels, enhancing sound control while subtly reinforcing FMT’s visual identity.
Ceiling tiles introduced pops of colour for vibrancy, referencing design elements from our previous collaboration with the client. The result: a cohesive, layered aesthetic that balances sophistication with function.
FMT’s signature deep blue runs consistently throughout the space, from the reception desk to meeting rooms, kitchens, and ceiling panels, bringing cohesion and visual continuity. Soft finishes and upholstery were carefully chosen for comfort, durability, and understated elegance, particularly in social zones such as the kitchen and reception.
To achieve the desired balance of style, performance, and longevity, Modern Office incorporated the following items into this fitout:
The finished space is a true reflection of First Mortgage Trust’s professionalism and brand essence - robust, cohesive, and purpose-built for collaboration and productivity. By combining timeless materials, modern detailing, and functional design, the new office provides an inspiring environment for the FMT team to continue building New Zealand’s financial future.
If you’d like more information on this project or the furniture you see, get in touch.
What goes into a successful office furniture fit-out and what questions will you need answered? This guide will tell you just that.
