Archway Offices – Brisbane
Archway's new space in Brisbane blurs the lines between luxury high-end retail and the functionality of workplace, and in doing so thoughtfully demonstrates a welcoming and worthwhile return-to-work.
Archway created a space that shows their ability to create lively, fun, and sophisticated environments at their office in Brisbane, Australia.
Brisbane’s leading workplace design and construct company chose to showcase the future of commercial office design with their own office and showroom space.
The new space blurs the lines between luxury high-end retail and the functionality of workplace, and in doing so thoughtfully demonstrates a welcoming and worthwhile return-to-work. The ingenuity and forward-thinking design results in a clever take on the modern workplace and sets a new standard for a truly culture inspired workplace.
With a requirement for more space driving the project, the Archway team were given creative freedom to design and create their own workplace and showroom from the ground up. With the aspiration to present the best in workplace design, no detail was overlooked in making this exceptional space stand out from the rest.
The second you step out of the lift, you’re in a bright and luxurious lobby surrounded in custom rendered plaster. This detail carries into the Archway showroom where the illuminated venetian plaster ceiling elevates the space.
It’s beautifully and thoughtfully designed, with illuminated archways connecting the front of house to the back of house, and creatively interweaving the brand through the design. Timber is used as a dominant material right through the space, paired with soft illumination to add warmth to the minimalistic and clean finishes. The natural stone paving, thoughtful tile selection, and classic white brickwork are a nod to a mid-century Palm Springs vibe. The carefully chosen artwork and plants reflect the vibrant but chill atmosphere, and quirky decor keeps a passion for curiosity alive. This selection of finishes combined with the natural lighting makes the space light-filled and serene.
A focus on collaboration, technology, and client experience bring a breath of fresh air and allow the traditional workplace to be reimagined. These three areas have been reconsidered with respect to new ways of working in a post-pandemic workplace. The space has been designed to reflect how the team works, and promotes collaboration and connection between staff – from the design hub and the kitchen to the open plan workstations and the meeting rooms. A variety of configurations facilitate both formal and informal collaboration. Integrating technology throughout the office was key to ensuring this was an office for tomorrow. The bookable boardroom, meeting and zoom rooms are fitted out with the latest in video conferencing equipment, making day-to-day operations seamless as well as showcasing solutions for new ways of working to clients.
The visitor check-in experience is seamless and contactless, with guests being presented with beverage options prior to their showroom experience. The entry experience flows through to the design hub where clients can be immersed in the design process. This area houses abundant interior design swatches where clients can interact with concept plans and designs on a large colour touchscreen.
With increased pressure on supply chains, there was minor delays with materials and audio-visual equipment, but nothing that stopped the project completing on time and on budget. Perhaps the biggest challenge faced during the design phase concerned the very existence of workplace itself. As the world recovers from a health crisis, many persons are left unsure about their office environment and whether work-from-home is here to stay. The Archway design team pushed-aside cluttered media opinion and post-pandemic workplace uncertainty and stayed true to their belief – that good design and functional, collaborative spaces will always attract persons to the office.
The new workspace features natural timbers and thriving biophilic elements. The placement of greenery is both aesthetic and aimed at promoting staff wellness and productivity. Some furniture and IT equipment was relocated and used from the previous office space to minimise wastage. Working with local contractors and supporting local furniture businesses was key to ensuring the design was sustainable.
Design: Archway
Photography: Cieran Murphy
