Slater & Gordon Lawyers
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Axiom Workplaces and Greenbox Architects collaborated with Slater & Gordon on the transformation of their Melbourne head office. Slater & Gordon, a prominent Australian consumer law firm, relocated to 530 Collins Street, spanning 3 floors and approximately 4000 sqm. Greenbox provided the design, while Axiom managed the project and construction of the new workplace.

The Building, 530 Collins Street, Melbourne

530 Collins is located in the heart of Melbourne's bustling corporate district. This iconic office tower offers stunning city views and a wide range of top-notch services and amenities.

With 38 floors of premium office space, this building boasts a top-tier office environment. It has been recognised with a prestigious 4.5 Star NABERS Energy rating, making it a sustainable choice.

The central location is easily accessible via all forms of public transport, making commuting a breeze. State-of-the-art end-of-trip facilities, including showers, lockers, towels, and bicycle parking, ensure a seamless transition from work to leisure.

Additionally, the building features a first-class concierge team that provides all the services you'd expect from a 5-star hotel.

See below; 530 Collins Street, Melbourne building and foyer, the pre fit out cold shell on Level 35. 

Slater & Gordons Office Design Concepts

Greenbox was tasked with providing design consultancy services for their new Melbourne head office. Collaborating with Axiom as the appointed contractor for the fit-out works, the brief called for flexible accommodation for up to 300 staff across 3 floors, incorporating an interconnecting stair. The design aimed to align with Slater and Gordon Lawyers' brand and workplace design guidelines, while infusing a distinct Melbourne personality.

Transitioning towards shared and flexible offices in an open plan environment was a key focus, allowing for future-proofing of the new head office. Various workspace opportunities were created, including collaboration areas, focus spaces, and rooms, with a central breakout and gathering space for staff interactions. Utilising an existing interconnect stair, the design encouraged vertical movement while maintaining a secure separation between front and back of house areas. Reception and client meeting rooms were strategically planned for operational effectiveness and a positive client and guest experience.

The finishes and materials palette were inspired by Slater and Gordon Lawyers' design guidelines, with a refined selection of soft tones and timber detailing, creating a calm undertone with moments of delight. Acoustic design was carefully considered, with Axiom and Greenbox collaborating to achieve optimal acoustic performance in sensitive areas within the office environment.

 

See below the design concepts shown in renders for the Breakout Area, Entry and Open Workspace.

The Construction Delivery of the Workplace

Axiom implemented integrated makegood and fit-out processes, working closely with the PCG group and seamlessly integrating technology with Workspace AV. Our use of PROCORE, an advanced project management software, allowed us to track progress, manage documentation, and facilitate communication among all parties. Additionally, Sign on Site provided real-time snapshots of on-site activities, tracked worker attendance, and managed safety documentation, ensuring transparency and project alignment.

Building all three levels simultaneously enabled us to stay ahead of schedule and complete the project a week earlier. The client expressed high satisfaction with the project's outcome, highlighting the zero-defect handover and achievement of key milestones ahead of schedule. The collaborative approach between our team, the client, and the consultants was a key factor in the project's success. Feedback from Kate Malone, Chief Operating Officer, reiterated their gratitude and appreciation for the exceptional service provided by the Axiom team, underscoring the professionalism, attention to detail, and dedication demonstrated throughout the process.

 

The finished Project

Slater & Gordon awarded Axiom a 9 NPS score for the project's completion, highlighting the high level of service and professionalism from the Axiom team, and the successful and timely, on-budget delivery of the overall project.

 

Below photos taken by Shannon McGrath

 

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The Design

The key design themes - Authentic, Inquisitive, Engaging - serve as the foundation for the transformative design elements implemented in this workspace. The hospitality aspects of PIP's Sydney office fitout underscore the organisation's commitment to creating a welcoming and inspiring environment where employees can socialize and work harmoniously with their coworkers. By driving purpose and innovation through colocation, PIP leverages its office design to foster a culture of collaboration, creativity, and excellence.

The new workspace embraces the principles of biophilia, and the integration of lush greenery and natural elements. Not only did this beautify the outdoor space but also significantly expanded the breakout and function areas, creating a harmonious connection with nature.

Furthermore, strategic changes in floor finishes have been carefully curated to guide visual pathways throughout the workspace, enhancing the flow and functionality of the environment. The emphasis on natural light not only benefits the well-being of the staff but also adds a sense of warmth and vitality to the space, with the built environment thoughtfully positioned against solid walls to optimize exposure.

In addition, the inclusion of a wellness space, equipped with amenities such as a fridge and an occasional armchair, caters to the diverse needs of the employees, providing a dedicated area for activities like prayer, meditation, and relaxation. The arrivals area has been thoughtfully designed to exude a sense of welcome and inclusivity, achieved through strategic zoning and the selective use of timber ceiling panels upon entry, setting the tone for a positive and inviting work environment.

 

 

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The Outcome

Axiom truly excelled in maximizing the functionality of the limited floor space available through innovative and thoughtful space planning techniques. By incorporating softer curves and angles into the design, they were able to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the overall aesthetic, balancing out the building's rectilinear structure. This design choice not only enhanced the visual appeal but also helped to clearly define the different areas within the workspace, from open workspaces to meeting rooms and breakout areas, using a clever combination of colours and textures.

Moreover, the creation of a versatile collaborative zone in the breakout space showcased Axiom's commitment to creating dynamic and multifunctional work environments. This space not only served as a town hall or presentation area but also doubled as a communal meal space, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among employees. Its strategic location near the large balcony further enhanced its functionality, allowing for seamless transitions between indoor meetings and outdoor gatherings, ultimately promoting the social well-being and connectivity of the staff. Axiom's attention to detail and focus on creating spaces that cater to both practical needs and social interactions truly set them apart in the world of design.