Axiom Workplaces partnered with a leading national wealth management organisation to transform its Melbourne head office. Spanning two floors and approximately 2000 sqm at the prestigious 171 Collins Street, Axiom delivered a holistic solution encompassing workplace strategy, design, project management, and construction for this significant commercial office fitout.
The office resides in an iconic Melbourne building blending heritage and modernity. With its Romanesque Revival façade and a striking 18-storey glass tower designed by Bates Smart, the space offers a sense of legacy alongside contemporary features. Premium amenities include:
- Sustainability Ratings: 6 Star NABERS for Energy and Waste, 6 Star Green Star As Built, and 5 Star Green Star Performance.
- Facilities: Business lounges, end-of-trip amenities, wellness zones, and certified carbon-neutral operations.
Before initiating design, Axiom facilitated workshops with leadership and employees, leveraging proprietary tools like the wrkx index to uncover organisational objectives.
Key outcomes included:
- Enhanced Collaboration: Consolidating teams into larger, unified floorplates to foster connection and dismantle silos.
- Space Optimisation: Studies informed efficient workflows, aligning the design with existing and aspirational practices.
- Employee Well-being: Insights highlighted the need for dynamic, ergonomic spaces infused with natural elements.
- ESG Alignment: Adhering to stringent sustainability goals, the project integrated the client’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) framework.
Design Features
The design prioritises collaboration, functionality, and cultural resonance:
- Functional Spaces: Includes training rooms, front-of-house client areas, and daily-use collaborative zones.
- Feature Staircase: The elegant staircase boasted polished wooden steps and a sleek concrete finish around the banister, strategically positioned to enable teams on the upper floor to conveniently reach the kitchen facilities and reception.
- Art Integration: Bespoke artworks celebrate the heritage façade, symbolizing the organisation’s connection to Melbourne's business district.
- Sustainable Choices: Locally sourced materials and furniture reflect the client’s social and environmental values.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Stylish finishes and biophilic elements create a welcoming, high-class atmosphere.
See below the design concepts shown in renders for the breakout area, boardroom, reception and client arrival space.
Commissioned Artwork
Axiom engaged local Melbourne artist Joe Blundell to create two large artworks for the new reception area. The client transitioned from the older section of this historic landmark to a new office space within the same building. Axiom requested Joe to capture the essence of the facade as a tribute to their time in that beloved space, focusing on the windows where many team members had worked. The architectural details are depicted through representations of a summer and an autumn tree. These two remarkable pieces now grace the reception and entry of the completed workplace, visually conveying the culture and sophisticated charm of the client's history for all to appreciate.
Construction Project Challenges and Execution
This high-detail project, executed under tight timelines, overcame several complexities:
- Structural Modifications: Installation of a connecting staircase to unify levels and encourage interaction.
- Integrated Processes: Combining make-good and fit-out processes to streamline delivery.
- Project Management of Trades & Services: Workplace technology partner Workspace AV. Custom joinery partner Nouva.
- Advanced Tools: Utilising technologies like PROCORE and Sign on Site for real-time progress tracking and safety management.
Sustainability Achievements
The project embedded sustainability at every stage:
- Recycled Content: Where possible reuse of existing furniture reduced waste and supported circular economy principles.
- Energy Efficiency: Alignment with the building's 6-Star NABERS rating for energy performance.
- Inclusive Procurement: Engaged First Nations-owned businesses and social enterprises to foster diversity.
The finished Project
The finished space embodies sophistication and purpose:
- Reception Area: Impresses visitors with its refined styling and warm, inviting ambiance.
- Breakout Spaces: Serve as social hubs, enhancing employee connection and well-being.
- Overall Design: Reflects the client’s ethos, promoting collaboration, sustainability, and employee satisfaction.
The project is distinguished by its comprehensive design approach, effortlessly blending functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability. The design encourages collaboration while honoring the site's heritage, with custom art pieces highlighting the organisation’s cultural connections to Melbourne. Innovation is showcased through cutting-edge technology solutions and acoustic treatments that focus on employee well-being. The project’s use of ESG-compliant materials and locally sourced furnishings represents exemplary sustainability practices. This combination of forward-thinking design and client-focused solutions results in a unique, future-ready workplace. This transformation exemplifies Axiom’s expertise in delivering tailored workplace strategies and commercial office fitouts that align with client values and business objectives.
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Photos taken by Shannon McGrath
