Our challenge was to transform old style warehouses and a hardstand area into four modern commercial office buildings. Whilst reinforcing the character of the existing buildings and local area, the commercial development houses the new contemporary Headquarters for Max Brenner Australia. Facilities for production, warehousing, ancillary administration, staff amenities and a Max Brenner café were incorporated.

The design presented a clear undertaking to retain the original structure and re-fabricate as much as possible to ensure a sustainable development. A section of the old warehouse roof was removed to create an internal courtyard. The roof beams were retained to reference the historical and structural elements of the site. External covered walkways link the buildings on different levels by providing visual connection as well as cantilevering over the facades below to provide shade. A new office block was integrated on the street front with a basement carpark. It provides flexible rental spaces for a range of commercial uses for high technology, light industries, warehouse, showroom and offices.

Four interconnected buildings stand congruously with perceptive consideration of design and architectural finishes. Central to the design lays the hidden internal courtyard maximising natural light and an outdoor respite. Most of the facades are dominated by robust, dark, red, Roman style bricks connecting the architecture of each building. Two top floor facades are contrasted with Corten steel cladding. The external materials were specified to complement the surrounding area and enhance a contemporary industrial commercial development.

Winning Project at the BDAA National Design Awards 2022