The first stage of this new precinct is New York inspired warehouse studios. Modelled after the raw yet urban offices of the famous ‘Meatpacking’ District in Manhattan, the studios come complete with polished concrete floors, light infused spaces, high ceilings and elevated view of the Docklands.

Spread over 4 levels, Industry Business Hub is the perfect mix of both function and stylish form, reflecting the visual and material grit of old South Melbourne, whilst providing a contemporary home for a new industry.

Construction is now underway for stage one and will be ready for occupancy in December 2010.

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The brief was to create a relaxed corporate environment, achieved through a mix of stylish, comfortable break-out areas versus the more formal reception and meeting room spaces.

The open plan layout is designed to suit the ever-changing needs of an office environment. The flexible layout will significantly reduce future churn costs and work towards a continued environmentally sustainable work place.

The space planning provides equitable access to natural light for all staff, and the successful space efficacies have afforded a trafficable corridor around the perimeter.

The office layout reflects a corporate office culture that encourages staff interaction. We appreciate that not all productive work is carried out in meeting rooms and workstations.

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The development is 6 storeys high, with 4 levels of office space of 4000sqm and 3 basement levels for car parking, providing 121 carparks.  A penthouse apartment finishes the top floor of the building.

The key drawcard tenant of this development is the renowned Dutton showroom, which showcases exotic European and Prestige cars from around the world.  The reputed Café Veloce is an extension of the showroom, providing a quality cafe experience.

Inspired by 1970’s Ferrari design and iconic Italian car design firm Pininfarina, the façade of the building boasts a strong, audacious collection of forms dramatically suspended in the streetscape.

This distinctive puzzle of concrete fragments reflects the exciting cosmopolitan character of South Yarra.

The brief included a separation of the front and back of house. The front of house features a Boardroom, Big Star and Little Fish meeting rooms. The use of warm deep timbers, soft grey stone tiles and lightweight screening panels creates a sleek yet inviting environment in which to conduct business.

To add interest and a unique identity to the front of house, specialized lighting was chosen to enhance the meeting rooms and entry foyer. A cardboard reception desk, designed by the architect, is positioned in the foyer, making a bold statement upon entry. A brag wall occupies an entire wall of the boardroom, with back-lit orange panels hinting at the company’s corporate colours.

The back of house includes office spaces, a staff soft room and general service spaces. The challenge was to create a light filled open office in a deep space that allowed acoustic privacy for each staff member. This was achieved by each office being fully enclosed by glass. Sliding doors open into a brightly lit 4m wide central hub space, forming an atmospheric, light, spacious meeting and discussion space.

The final product not only meets the brief, but exceeds the client’s expectations, with a 30% increase in staff productivity. This process reflects the creative and highly successful collaboration between client and architect.