The Blind Foundation will be celebrating the opening of its new Tauranga offices with a public open day on Thursday.
The purpose-built space is located opposite the Historic Village on 17th Ave.
Blind Foundation chief executive Sandra Budd said the foundation was excited to share its new space with all of the Bay of Plenty blindness community.
"These offices have been built with our unique needs in mind. It gives us an ideal venue to carry out the essential support services that are so vital to local people who are blind or have low vision."
CBC Construction was tasked to design and build the 596 square metre development and managing director Drew Beekie said the building was designed to showcase an impressive glass frontage.
"We used a lightweight structure of composite insulated panels, with aluminium glazed curtain walling to the front facade. This provides people with ample amounts of natural daylight while working inside."
Another key feature is the interior contrasting colours applied to the different finishes, specifically to meet the needs of those with low vision.
"Part of the design brief was to include elements that would help people identify different areas within the building, making it easier to navigate.
"We also had to allow for a secure area at the rear of the building for puppies in training and working guide dogs."
The public open day on Thursday will run from 11am until 3pm and will feature an equipment display and an opportunity to meet members of the Blind Foundation Client Services team.
Light refreshments will also be served.
