Gray Puksand partnered with Launch Housing, a community organisation delivering homelessness services to disadvantaged Victorians, to design their new Collingwood Hub. The project brief centred on creating an inspiring and welcoming workplace that reflected Launch Housing’s values and culture, while supporting the consolidation of multiple existing teams into a single agile and connected workspace.

The design draws inspiration from the architecture, landscape and textures of Victoria, using colour and materiality to create a strong sense of identity and place. Warm terracotta tones reference the surrounding brickwork of Collingwood, while vibrant bursts of colour reinterpret the area’s iconic murals and creative character. Layers of blue tones reference the Victorian Alps, complemented by earthy finishes inspired by the walking trails and natural textures of Yarra Park.

Sustainability was embedded throughout the project and became a key driver of the design outcome. Carpet tiles sourced from discontinued product lines, excess stock and samples were repurposed to create a playful and visually engaging interior. This approach challenged the misconception that sustainable design solutions are inherently more expensive, demonstrating how thoughtful reuse can deliver both environmental and aesthetic value.

The agile workplace was carefully planned to support a variety of work modes and user needs. Spaces were grouped by function and include collaborative work areas, phone booths, informal nooks and quiet rooms. Recognising that many staff conversations are confidential in nature, the workplace also enables teams to book spaces according to different levels of privacy requirements.

Launch Housing’s Collingwood Hub showcases the project team’s commitment to eco-friendly design, workplace functionality and cost-effective sustainability outcomes.

Team:

Architects: Gray Puksand

Photographer: Tatjana Plitt