Western Australia
The brief was to repurpose a former Telstra call centre to create a new workplace for DPIRD over four levels on a tight budget that embraces open-plan and flexible work arrangements, promotes cross-collaboration between the various pillars of the department and unites them.
Local Aboriginal artist Dr. Richard Walley was commissioned to create unique artwork, originally intended as standalone pieces within the fitout. Inspired by one of Richard’s linework drawings, which he developed to recognise the significance of the place, it was agreed that instead of just creating art pieces, the artwork could be used as a generator to give the whole fitout over 4 levels a specific identity linked to place and the work the department does within the WA environment. Whilst each level has its own identity, the artwork, colours, materials, wayfinding and furniture selection tie all the floors together in a unified agency and corporate identity.
The new fitout encapsulates the agency’s important role within WA, celebrated through extensive site-specific Aboriginal artwork, which together with the architectural design creates a positive work environment for staff to engage with each other across various defined zones including specialised quiet zones to digitally connect with regional teams. As a result of removing the cellular configuration, the new open and flexible environment inspires staff to collaborate across multiple business units and is conducive to better relationships. It was an intentional move to omit individual offices, removing the traditional hierarchy approach to the government agency and creating a unified team structure.
BPA Engineering, Structural Engineer
Dr Richard Walley, Artist and Cultural Consultant
DSA, Mechanical Consultant
ETC, AV Consultant
ETC, Electrical Consultant
Gabriels Hearne Farrell, Acoustic Consultant
Maclean and Lawrence, Hydraulic Consultant
RBB, Quantity Surveyor
Turner Design, Graphics Consultant
The Australian Institute of Architects acknowledges First Nations peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands, waters, and skies of the continent now called Australia.
We express our gratitude to their Elders and Knowledge Holders whose wisdom, actions and knowledge have kept culture alive.
We recognise First Nations peoples as the first architects and builders. We appreciate their continuing work on Country from pre-invasion times to contemporary First Nations architects, and respect their rights to continue to care for Country.
