PROJECT | Aurora Place
LOCATION | Sydney, New South Wales
ARCHITECT | Cox Architecture
PHOTOGRAPHY | Nicole England
Aurora Place: A Thoughtful Transformation by COX
COX has undertaken a restrained and thoughtful refurbishment of the iconic Aurora Place lobby and forecourt, originally designed by Renzo Piano. The design reimagines the space through a hospitality lens, creating purposeful settings where visitors can engage, retreat, dwell, or dine. Organically divided into two distinct areas straddling the lift lobby, the western business lounge overlooks Philip Street and offers flexible meeting and collaboration spaces. In contrast, the eastern side features a vibrant café anchored by a monolithic travertine bar, where abundant pastries, coffee, and salads create a welcoming atmosphere.
Sensitive to the architectural significance of the building, COX opted for a minimalist palette, blending modern elements with respect for the original design. The astral black flooring was retained and subtly augmented to create a smaller stone pattern that transitions from urban to interior, demarcating dwell spaces. The terrazzo walls, framing curated art pieces, offer controlled decoration in an otherwise intentionally restrained space.
A key aspect of the refurbishment was sustainability, achieved through the reuse of materials. Salvaged timber from the original lobby was repurposed into the concierge desk, lobby coffee tables, and external seating, while smaller offcuts were crafted into chopping boards. This considered approach, in close consultation with the Renzo Piano Building Workshop (RPBW), preserved the spirit and identity of the original space while meeting the evolving needs of its users.
Furniture Focus: Delphi Sofas, Ox Chairs, Series 7, and Concert Pendant
In the thoughtfully refurbished Aurora Place, our Delphi Sofas and Ox Chairs seamlessly integrate with the updated design, enhancing the space's overall ambiance. The Delphi Sofas, with their sleek, modern lines, bring a touch of sophistication and comfort to the business lounge area. Designed for both elegance and durability, these sofas provide a refined setting for meetings, informal gatherings, or moments of relaxation.
Complementing the Delphi Sofas are the iconic Ox Chairs, designed by Hans J. Wegner. Their sculptural form and contemporary design add a striking visual element to the space. The Ox Chairs contribute to the dynamic atmosphere, offering not only a comfortable seating experience but also an artful accent that aligns with the space's minimalist yet elegant aesthetic.
Additionally, Fritz Hansen’s Series 7 chairs and Concert Pendant light fixtures contribute to the refined atmosphere of the space. The Series 7 chairs, known for their versatile and ergonomic design, complement the functional and aesthetic requirements of the space. The Concert Pendant, with its elegant and understated design, provides a warm and inviting glow, enhancing the ambiance and highlighting the architectural features of the refurbishment.
Together, these pieces of furniture and lighting play a crucial role in the refurbishment, embodying a balance of style and function that defines the updated Aurora Place. Their integration reflects a careful consideration of both comfort and visual impact, enhancing the overall experience for visitors in this iconic setting.
