PROJECT | WMK Sydney Studio
LOCATION | Sydney, New South Wales

ARCHITECT | WMK Architecture
PHOTOGRAPHY | Nicole England

WMK Sydney Studio: A Harmonious Blend of Design and Sustainability

The new WMK Sydney Studio, located at 9 Castlereagh St, is a testament to innovative design and sustainability. Nestled within the iconic commercial office tower originally designed by Harry Seidler, the studio features a 12-metre-high skylit atrium, previously used as a childcare centre and restaurant. This space sits at the end of the entry axis from the forecourt and foyer, creating a striking first impression.

Conscious of preserving the original vision of the space, WMK strategically designed the studio to reflect their brand identity without compromising the architectural integrity. The workspace accommodates a headcount of 80, with the ability to expand and provide flexible workspaces for those visiting from interstate offices. Given the limited space with only a small mezzanine floor and no existing services, the mezzanine was extended, incorporating voids to introduce natural light to the ground floor and enhance visual connectivity between the two levels.

To meet the functional needs of the studio, new bathrooms, a library, and versatile meeting spaces of various capacities were introduced across both levels. The design approach prioritised the creation of collaborative workplace zones throughout the studio, recognising them as the heartbeat of daily activities. These zones encourage active learning and effective decision-making among teams, serving as dynamic environments that foster creativity and productivity.

Behind the 12-metre-high glazing in the office foyer, the 'Yarn' space serves as the front of house—a landscaped grand room with a reception, flexible design lab, and staff breakout area. Designed to encourage spontaneous interactions, it facilitates conversations and gatherings between staff and visitors.

The ground floor Design Lab and breakout lounge resemble an elegantly designed timber box, a captivating structure visible from the Castlereagh St forecourt. To enhance the existing space, a large indigenous artwork featuring a pattern repeat was commissioned to cover the unused high waterfall pebblecrete surface. Mindful of the polished granite walls and a seraphic glass barrel vault in the foyer, the design incorporates light timber with warm tones, offering a harmonious contrast to the existing grey salt and pepper granite. The flooring and furniture subtly feature muted greens, aligning with WMK's brand colours.

With sustainability at the forefront of the design, materials such as cork have been used as an acoustic wall lining, pin-up surface, and textural feature, chosen due to its renewable, sustainable, and biodegradable nature. FSC-certified timber has also been used throughout the fit-out as a solid timber partition system as well as decorative panels. The custom concierge desk in the arrival area was made from recycled building materials and samples, and the terrazzo floor and wall tiles for the bathrooms were made from recycled materials for the aggregates. Furniture selection was crucial to avoid short-lived style trends, opting instead for timeless, high-quality pieces from suppliers with refurbishment and recycling schemes aligning with WMK's values.

Furniture selection was crucial to avoid short-lived style trends, opting instead for timeless, high-quality pieces from suppliers with refurbishment and recycling schemes aligning with WMK's values.

Furniture Selection

In line with their commitment to sustainability, WMK avoided selecting short-lived style trends and focused instead on high-quality pieces from suppliers with value-aligned refurbishment and recycling schemes. This is where Cult Design's offerings played a crucial role.

The Series 7™ chairs by Fritz Hansen are a standout feature in the studio's versatile meeting spaces. Paired with the Nami conference tables on casters by nau, these chairs provide a sophisticated yet functional seating solution. Their sleek lines and ergonomic design make them an ideal choice for both formal meetings and casual gatherings, while the mobility of the conference tables adds flexibility to the workspace.

In the collaborative zones, the Montana Kevi 2051 Stools are paired with the Nami bistro tables by nau. These stools, with their minimalist design and sturdy construction, offer a perfect blend of style and practicality. The combination creates an inviting setting for casual dining and informal discussions.

In a different area, the Kevi 2052 Bar Stools are paired with a customised Nami table with a square top, providing a stylish and functional setup for higher seating arrangements. This combination is perfect for bar-height tables and counters, adding a modern touch to the studio's design.

The Flowerpot VP9 lamps by &Tradition add a pop of colour and light to the studio. These stylish lamps, with their distinctive design, enhance the overall ambience and create a welcoming atmosphere. Their vibrant hues and soft lighting contribute to the studio's unique charm, making it a pleasant place to work.

Series 7 by Fritz Hansen / Nami Conference Table by nau / Kevi 2501 Stools by Montana / Nami Bistro Table by nau / Flowerpot VP9 by &Tradition

Nami Table by nau / Kevi 2502 Bar Stools by Montana

Conclusion

The transformation of the WMK Sydney Studio has played a pivotal role in redefining and elevating the overall look and feel of the ground floor plane. Creating a genuine "wow” factor upon entering the space, the design exudes an uplifting yet relaxing energy. This distinctive atmosphere, not typically congruent with traditional workspaces, resonates more with a welcoming hospitality venue. The deliberate design and meticulous planning that define the space showcase WMK’s commitment to breaking away from the ordinary to deliver a unique brand experience.

Passersby are frequently captivated by the inviting aura—this speaks volumes about the space's unique charm, making it stand out as an inviting and refreshing departure from conventional office environments. The carefully curated design elements not only foster productivity but also create an environment where work seamlessly intertwines with a sense of comfort and hospitality.

The WMK Sydney Studio is a shining example of how thoughtful design and sustainability can coexist. By choosing high-quality, timeless furniture pieces from Cult Design, WMK has created a space that is not only beautiful and functional but also environmentally responsible.