Jacobs Engineering - Melbourne Office
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Jacobs is a global engineering and consultancy firm with hundreds of offices across the world. Jacobs provides a vast range of professional services including engineering, technical, professional and construction delivery, as well as scientific and speciality consulting across clients globally, private companies and government agencies. By partnering with Axiom the construction of their Melbourne office in Flinders Street was successfully delivered.

Axiom was engaged to firstly reproduce a full design documentation package in compliance with all necessary Australian Standards and National Building Codes, and secondly construct and deliver the commercial office fit out in accordance with Jacob's required global design standards.

Implementing Jacobs Global Office Design

Axiom seamlessly integrated Jacob's global design standard into the new Melbourne office space. With the aim of adhering to their set standards Jacobs undertook the role of all furniture procurement alongside Axiom who skillfully managed the installation onsite. All unavailable products were locally sourced and approved by the global design team for inclusion to the fit out. Despite the challenge of working around an existing partially demolished and already refurbished fit out, Axiom successfully executed the project with precision and coordination expertise.

The Building

Located at 452 Flinders Street Melbourne, this A-Grade landmark building boasts a remarkable 5.5 Star NABERS Indoor Environment rating plus a 4.5 Star NABERS Energy rating ensuring optimal comfort for all of its occupants. The building also features end of trip facilities design to support active commuters throughout their day and daily journey to and from work. With an on-site cafe, various dining options, premium concierge services, and convenient access to childcare this positioning promotes a harmonious work-life balance for all. For Jacob's occupancy across two floor levels the expansive floorplates provide abundant natural light across the interior, breathtaking CBD views and sightline connections, along with a 200-seat auditorium facility within the building, enhancing their choice in a workplace of the future.

The Workplace

The new Jacobs' workplace was constructed and delivered with a design and installation which provided;

  • An open plan landscape for different types of working styles - team based, individual, hybrid and focus
  • Built in staff personal lockers and support spaces
  • Varied collaboration and meeting spaces with digital connectivity
  • An existing internal staircase promoting connectivity and staff interaction
  • A choice of flexibility and workplace balance

 

The finished Project

Jacobs awarded a perfect 10 NPS score for the project's completion, highlighting the high level of service and professionalism from the Axiom team, the successful adherence to global guidelines and the timely, on-budget delivery of the overall project.

 

Photos taken by Graham Alderton.

 

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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.