Akuna Capital

The Brief

The client wanted to create an atmosphere to aid their graduate talent acquisition strategy. They also have aggressive growth projections and needed a workplace that could grow with the business.

The challenge posed to Axiom, was that the client wanted to reuse the existing space, furniture and floor finishes. However, with the previous tenant being a traditional banking group, the ambiance was not conducive to Akuna Capital’s culture.

The Outcome

We focused on utilising some of the existing elements and focusing on spaces that would create value. This was centred around creating a workplace that enables collaboration, socialising and connection.

Upon entry the new space gives an impression of vibrancy and activity. Instead of a traditional reception area, we designed a light, open space giving views of Darling Harbour. This area features a barista bar and immediately conveys Akuna Capital’s youthful corporate culture.

As well as refreshing the existing materials palette, we incorporated the Akuna Capital ideology of ‘Riding the Wave’ by focusing on the employee experience and wellness. This started with helping with the commute. A bike rack, showers, locker and laundry were incorporated into the design. Employees could then move to the casual café zone to enjoy breakfast and an all-day barista.

Activated circulation spaces were created to ensure cross-team collaboration, but without causing disruption to the quieter focused work areas. Our design team took the opportunity to create active zones even in spaces that would normally be considered functional.

As well as achieving a high-level of sustainability through the reuse of existing materials, we focused on biophilia – human connection to nature – by utilising plants and greenery throughout the workplace.

Axiom Workplaces and Akuna Capital created a sustainable, vibrant and youthful space that enhances their company culture and cross-function collaboration.