Challenge

WMK were engaged to create a new workspace for Blackmores over 3 floors in Surry Hills. The priority was to translate the brand ethos present at their campus site in Warriewood, adapting it to suit the industrial warehouse aesthetic of the Surry Hills site.

The design needed to specifically suit the Blackmores functional and spatial needs, while integrating with the base building refurbishment works.

WMK were brought on to help Blackmores prepare for their future needs and expectations of the next generation workforce. A broader Workplace Strategy piece was undertaken concurrently with the process of designing and documenting Kippax St.

Solution

Reflecting the ethos of the Blackmores Group, the design concept was developed around the idea of natural innovation. The design focuses on the holistic wellbeing of the employees, using natural materials and a consistent neutral colour palette to create a calming and welcoming work space.

Visitors are greeted by impressive stadium seating at the base of an open stair void, connecting all three floors. This was created to foster connectivity between floors and collaborative ante spaces.

Adopting market leading insights into the workplace of the future, a ‘neighbourhoods’ planning principle was adopted for the work areas, with access to shared collaborative spaces, allowing for staff to be agile and to work flexibly.

Outcome

Drawing on the culture, brand and practices of the Blackmores Group, the new site in Surry Hills is dynamic and collaborative. With Blackmores as a key partner, WMK delivered innovation together with holistic commercially viable sustainability features. The agile environment created has seen a greater level of employee engagement, with the Kippax Street site now being used as the pilot for Blackmores future workplace design.