Boasting open-plan workspaces, transparent meeting rooms, a series of collaboration spaces and a focus on sustainability, ARUP Perth's new environment, designed by Woods Bagot, reflects a workplace of tomorrow yet also celebrates the company's rich history.
"The workplace has been designed to foster collaboration, enhance partnerships with clients and collaborators, promote creative work styles and support Arup's future strategic goals and objectives; whilst still paying homage to their rich history," said Ken Anderson, Senior Associate, Woods Bagot.
A series of graphics demonstrating the company's growth populate the workplace - a timeline of quarterly journal covers, a series of stylised office locality maps and a bespoke outline of significant Arup projects.
"At Arup, we are constantly looking for ways to provide our clients with the best service at all times," said Allan Mason, Arup Principal and Perth Office Leader.
"Woods Bagot worked in close consultation with us, as the client, to create a new workplace that celebrates our history, embraces sustainability, and enables an increased level of interaction between staff and clients."
One of the main drivers for the new workplace design was based on Arup's commitment to sustainability. This green perspective was upheld by the team throughout the project journey, ultimately influencing the design, choice of suppliers, materials and products selected. Haworth and Steelcase, two companies with their own commitment to sustainability, were chosen to provide furniture.
"Sustainability is broader than just achieving a green star rating," explained Allan. "For us the major sustainability elements to Woods Bagot's design revolve around the positive impact on the people inhabiting the space. Employers in the market for office space look for environments that help them to attract and retain the best talent. This new workspace creates a healthy environment for Arup's people."
There is a raft of new technology embedded within the workplace, such as integrated technologies that allow remote access, knowledge sharing and enhancing connectivity with colleagues all around the world.
With a long-standing relationship as one of Woods Bagot's strongest collaborators, in April 2011, Arup appointed the Woods Bagot Perth studio to undertake the interior design of its new CBD workplace.
Photography: Scott Shirley