We came onboard through an ECI arrangement, managing the transformation of a former Dimmeys store into an engaging and accessible office space for a government occupant.

Across two levels, the new workplace interweaves expansive open-plan zones with various meeting rooms, touch-down areas, informal hybrid working spaces and communal zones. We introduced a mezzanine level on the southern point, adding 829sqm of extra floor area.

We removed over 50% of the existing roof from the mezzanine level, replacing it with a new double sawtooth roof over the southernmost mezzanine and a double-height void with curtain wall glazing to provide a 165 square metre internal courtyard garden, complete with native ecology and timber decking. The shopping centre context left minimal opportunity for external planting, so we integrated internal seating planting to increase the presence of nature.

An environmentally conscious design underscores the modernised interiors and material refinement, with sustainability, resilience, and enhanced well-being as core considerations. It possesses model ecological and energy-use credentials, achieving a 4.5-star NABERS Energy Rating and is VGOBBS compliant.

Retrofitted full-height glazing insertions into the existing precast walls along the north, west and east elevations and clerestory windows on the mezzanine level introduce daylight into the deep plan. The LowE tempered insulated glazing limits UV and IR light exposure without comprising visible light and reduces the load on air-conditioning. Additionally, 872 photovoltaic panels on the office’s roof generate half of its energy, and a new 60,000-litre rainwater harvesting system. Other green measures include low-carbon materials, smart controls, end-of-trip facilities, EV charging, and adopting a circular economy approach to strip-out, design and procurement.

We re-worked the basement carpark, creating a new vertical lift and lobby, stairs, exhaust flue and motorbike parking, enclosed by four motorised gates.

By employing eco-friendly strategies, the space is both accessible and engaging for its end-users. The COVID-19 era underscored the profound human yearning for genuine social connections and great amenities in the workplace. This project addresses this need, emerging as a meticulously crafted space that deeply considers work-life integration.