The benefits of incorporating timber into workspaces include better wellbeing for users and increased productivity. Timber’s sustainability advantages are also another reason as to why timber is valued as a building material.
In light of WeWork’s latest lease in Brisbane’s tallest timber tower, here are some beautiful Australian offices that feature timber:
Timber frames transform this cosy office space designed and partially occupied by Ola Studio. Horizontal panels interspersed on these partitions creatively provide storage options for models or potted plants, which add to the relaxed atmosphere of this space.
Timber slats are liberally used as ceiling fixtures and partitions, as well as in shelves. Timber furniture, such as tables, counters and planter boxes complement these timber fixtures and add to the timber theme. Building on the wellness benefits afforded by using natural materials such as timber, The Commons South Melbourne also offers other wellness amenities, such as a yoga studio, a spin cycle studio, and two large outdoor terraces.
Timber shelves and furniture add warmth to the central breakout areas of Spaces Richmond, creating an environment that is cosy and inviting. Indoor greenery adds a hint of nature while pops of colour add vibrancy to the space. The abundance of natural daylight also contributes to a bright and comfortable atmosphere.
55 Brisbane Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010
Custom-made curved American Cherry wood suites reflect the curve of the 1940s heritage building that this office space is set in. Together with classic mid-century design pieces from Walter Knoll and Bassam Fellows, as well as a handpicked material palate of Travertine, leather, and burnished brass to complement the Cherry and Oak, Paramount by The Office Space creates a sense of luxury.
Level 23, 727 Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3008
Slender timber columns dot the group areas of this space. This recurring design theme is intelligently used as shelves and partitions/privacy screens. Even several thin circular light fixtures with timber-like accents are reminiscent of this motif. This is contrasted with darker coloured wood panels, whose horizontality is deliberately emphasised, possibly to create textural differences.
Level 10 and 11, 66 Clarence Street, Sydney NSW 2000
This contemporary office space uses a vertical timber motif on the central stairway and counter, embellishing the upper floor. This vertical theme is also highlighted through the selection of light fixtures. Black accents add to the character of the space, providing a contrasting colour to the timber and tan colour scheme of the space. This juxtaposition of timber and charcoal accents is also evident in the kitchen areas as well as meeting booths.
Ground Floor, 525 Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
In Spaces Rialto, the combination of timber and a predominantly blue-green colour scheme, complemented with marble surfaces and neutral grey tones, give an impression of sophistication and elegance. Simultaneously, hints of red add vibrancy to the space.
485 La Trobe Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
The ground floor atrium and breakout areas in 485 La Trobe Street feature a distinctive curvilinear timber slat ceiling fixture. The curvilinear theme extends through to serpentine benches which snake through the middle of the atrium, providing plenty of opportunities for informal interactions amongst the users of the space. Finally, an abundance of greenery adds to the welcoming atmosphere of the space.
Level 21, 133 Castlereagh Street, Sydney NSW 2000
The abundance of timber in 133 Castlereagh Street’s reception and common area, from the timber ceiling to the floors and the walls, produces a calming ambience. This is complemented by natural daylight and the delicately arranged plants on a timber backdrop.
Cover Photo: 485 La Trobe Street, Melbourne VIC 3000.