A new kind of architecture addresses the needs of the 21st century workplace, putting the human experience front and centre.
Work and everyday life are blurring. It’s a continual blending that presents opportunities for new kinds of business hubs and precincts that can address this need. Gray Puksand’s design for 631 Springvale Road is a response to this, putting the human experience front and centre.
From the way end-users will feel in all aspects of the building and its surrounds, to a holistic consideration for the amenities on-site – every element is measured against human factors to enhance the overall experience.
The removal of cars across the ground plate was key to the design strategy, opening up an activated plaza precinct that presents an ideal space to relax, work outside, eat, read or socialise.
Social interaction within the plaza is further facilitated through a series of interactive spaces including green zones, covered and paved areas, WiFi spots and BBQs, with a rooftop garden accessed via a distinctive corkscrew stair.
The building is conceived as a series of flat planes stacked with a void between creating positive and negative elements. These elements provide a robust and proud architecture that announces the new precinct to the corner.
Strategically placed cutout forms emphasise a tension between the positive and negative plates, while simultaneously facilitating balconies and plantings. The connection to nature facilitated by these elements plays a vital role in supporting wellbeing in the workplace.
Biophilic design principles have also been integrated through the insertion of an internal skylight atrium. Pushing a much-needed agenda for healthy building design, the shape of the floor plate with the atrium ensures that every person within the building is within 12-metres of a window.
Another crucial addition to 631 Springvale Road is a highly detailed end of trip facility, which is appointed with high-end amenities including lockers, a towel service and luxurious materials.
Team:
Architects: Gray Puksand
Photographer: Peter Clarke
