PROJECT | Transurban
LOCATION | Sydney, New South Wales
ARCHITECT | Bates Smart
PHOTOGRAPHY | Nicole England
Transurban: A Fusion of Innovation, Design, and Wellbeing by Bates Smart
In their transformative project for Transurban, Bates Smart has redefined what a modern office space can be, creating an immersive, sensory environment that fosters innovation and wellbeing. Spanning three floors of a 26-storey tower at 210 George Street, this space reflects Transurban’s focus on infrastructure, scale, and community connectivity while showcasing thoughtful design and cutting-edge technology.
Materiality and a connection to Sydney’s identity are central to the design, with natural, textural materials throughout that evoke a sense of place. The double-height space is a symbolic nod to Transurban’s infrastructure work, while the reception desk’s chiselled stone structure mirrors excavated strata and earth. This architectural honesty is woven into the base building’s raw elements, which were intentionally preserved to balance the futuristic workspace with an appreciation for the natural environment.
Technology flows seamlessly throughout the space, engaging clients and employees while showcasing Transurban’s role as a forward-thinking leader in the transport sector. Complementing this vision are curated pieces of furniture that bring both form and function to life.
Product Focus. Mega Tulip Range: Shaping the Workplace of Tomorrow
Central to Bates Smart’s design is the Mega Tulip Range by nau, which perfectly fits the project’s ethos of flexibility and future-focused design. With its organic curves and perfect proportions, Mega Tulip is an evolution of the beloved Fat Tulip, offering a distinctive softness that suits both commercial and residential environments.
In this project, Mega Tulip’s adaptability truly shines, allowing Bates Smart to create private zones for focus, open areas for interaction, and casual spaces for relaxation. This modular system, which ranges from independent sofas and armchairs to curved segments and high-back booths, provides limitless configurations, ensuring it can meet the needs of any modern workplace.
By offering spaces for both collaboration and seclusion, Mega Tulip supports Transurban’s commitment to fostering innovation within its workforce. The range’s presence throughout flexible workplaces and breakout areas ensures employees can move seamlessly between tasks, enhancing productivity and comfort.
Product Focus. Wendelbo: Design and Comfort in Relaxation Spaces
In the relaxed areas of Transurban’s office, Wendelbo’s modular Panorama Sofa, sculptural Ovata Chair, and contemporary Arc Table create a soothing and refined retreat. Designed by Jonas Wagell, the Panorama Sofa features simplified volumes and flexible configurations, making it an adaptable choice for intimate lounge settings. Its curved back and deep seats invite users to relax in comfort.
The Ovata Chair complements this with its soft, sculptural form that embraces the body, offering a calming presence. Adding a modern touch, the Arc Coffee Table, designed by Toan Nguyen, juxtaposes a solid geometric base with a light, slightly translucent glass tabletop. This balance of bold structure and delicate materials makes it a fitting centerpiece in the relaxation spaces.
Together, these Wendelbo pieces foster a sense of sophistication, warmth, and relaxation, aligning with the project's focus on wellbeing and balance.
Product Focus. Series 7 and Lato: Timeless and Sculptural Design
Arne Jacobsen’s Series 7 Chair, an icon from Fritz Hansen, is distributed throughout various areas of the office, offering both elegance and functionality. Renowned as one of the most sold chairs in furniture history, its pressure-moulded veneer design combines aesthetic sophistication with practical versatility, making it a standout piece in the workspace.
In different zones, the Lato Side Table, designed by Luca Nichetto for &tradition, adds a sculptural element. With its sleek, oval top and bold base, Lato resembles a piece of art, balancing simplicity with a sophisticated edge. Its striking design enhances the visual appeal of the office, bringing a touch of artistic flair to the environment.
Together, these pieces elevate the workspace, offering both practical function and visual appeal.
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.
With Bates Smart’s visionary design, supported by iconic furniture from nau, Wendelbo, Fritz Hansen, and &Tradition, Transurban’s office is more than just a workspace. It’s an environment that engages the senses, promotes wellbeing, and supports innovation – a true manifestation of the workplace of tomorrow.
