Thinkerbell-Concept Commercial Interiors

In six short years, Thinkerbell, a full-service creative agency, has become globally recognized with three offices across Australia and New Zealand. Concept Commercial Interiors are thrilled to have helped bring their vision to life for the expansion of their Melbourne workspace in Richmond.

Starting with an empty warehouse space, the transformation into an ideation playground was a collaboration between Concept’s workplace specialists and the creative genius of the Thinkerbell team, crafting effortlessly cool and interesting moments throughout the space.

The space overall feels open and collaborative, not taking itself too seriously but catering to all working styles. Entering through a hidden door on the building’s ground floor, visitors are welcomed by an inviting open-plan space in which team members have found their preferred working zone – whether it be on workbenches across from peers, in booths lined with acoustic paneling that cater to focus time or small meetings, or online or on the phone in the confessional booths that cleverly pay homage to those found in a church – lined with carpet and draperies to allow the user privacy in their call.

The industrial setting is creatively played with throughout the space – juxtaposed with generous pops of pink in soft and fluffy textures, and emphasized in detail like the contrasting extension cables and custom workbenches made of plumbing materials by local carpenter-turned-furniture maker Brendan from In the Thick of It.

Throughout the space, there is no doubt which company occupies the space. The branding elements of Thinkerbell are, as you can imagine with a creative agency, at the forefront. Booths lining the back wall mirror the graphic elements of their websites- punchy shapes lined in AcouFelt in custom Thinkerbell colours, while a double-sided sign upon entry encourages the team to “Think”– referring to the strategy arm of the business, and “Tink”, as the multi-disciplinary creatives in the team do.

Meeting rooms punctuated with funky décor encourage a playful culture that fosters creativity, while the moody theatre space transports users to a speakeasy-like atmosphere, acoustically insulated with hot pink AirLay carpet tiles and soft furnishings, that allows Thinkerbell’s Thinkers and Tinkers to review their award-winning campaigns.

A whimsical and practical workspace where their team can harness imagination and productivity, the Thinkerbell Melbourne office understands the needs of its users – crafting zones that work acoustically, creatively, and practically for the whole team.

A Quiet Place-A Major Player in Workplace Health

With as many as 90 per cent of Australian offices now being open plan, a healthy acoustic environment must be considered as part of a holistic approach to workplace health.
The worldwide workplace wellness industry is predicted to be worth around $100 billion by 2027, with employers increasingly seeking to address employees’ physical and mental health needs.
Acoustic treatments for office spaces are in growing demand as evidence shows that poor acoustics can have detrimental effects on employees’ wellbeing. This is exacerbated in open plan spaces, where speech and activity noise can lead to an unpleasant build-up of reverberation and echo.

Hard surfaces in these open spaces can lead to excessive unwanted noise. Acoustic solutions such as panels, fins, baffles and dividers can be implemented without the need for a full, permanent retrofit.

The necessity to integrate acoustic furniture alongside acoustic panels represents a holistic approach to embracing diverse working styles and the evolving design of open-floor offices. There are more quiet rooms and pods in office spaces to provide more privacy as people are still getting used to being in the office.

“Phone booths and acoustic screens for workstations have emerged as key elements in this transformation,” explains Specfurn’s Troy Wallace.
“They not only improve privacy and sound management but also integrate seamlessly into modern office aesthetics, providing effective solutions without compromising design. These innovations signify a commitment to accommodating a variety of work preferences, from collaborative spaces that foster team interaction to quiet zones that support individual focus and concentration.

“By incorporating these acoustic solutions, companies are not just adapting to a post-pandemic world; they are redefining it to support a more flexible, inclusive and health-conscious approach to workplace design. This evolution underscores the importance of acoustic considerations in creating environments that are not only ergonomically sound but also conducive to the diverse needs of today’s workforce.”

Acoustics by Specfurn has focused on redesigning workspaces to accommodate both collaborative efforts and the necessity for quiet, concentration zones.
“Our acoustic solutions are specifically tailored to support these diverse workspace requirements, ensuring that employees can find balance between collaboration and focused work. Moreover, acoustic comfort has emerged as a critical consideration for enhancing workplace wellness.

“Stress reduction and productivity improvements through better acoustics are now key priorities for many organisations. This shift has led to an increased demand for our products that offer noise-reducing properties and incorporate natural soundscapes, contributing to a healthier work environment.”
Additionally, changing attitudes to hybrid work arrangements following the disruption caused by Covid-19 will likely lead to more varied office ecosystems, ones that offer a number of different acoustic environments and spaces to cater to the needs of different workers.

“Since the Covid-19 pandemic, working from home arrangements have impacted the dynamics of office environments with an emphasis on acoustics,” says CSR’s Aaron Berrell.

“With a greater sensitivity and awareness to noise, the requirement for creating quieter and more focused workspaces in office environments has increased to accommodate for the heightened awareness of noise.

“Creating spaces that promote flexibility, comfort and wellbeing are critical to office environments. An increase in online meetings has seen the demand for building materials that provide acoustic benefits increase within commercial office spaces to reduce the amount of noise transmission within these environments.”

As employees transition back to the office from the flexibility of WFH setups, nearly all businesses face a unique challenge: replicating the quieter, more personalised acoustics of home workspaces within traditional office environments.

More and more people are returning to the office and they now expect a higher level of comfort, including acoustic performance.
This shift necessitates a focus on acoustic solutions that combat the intrusive, distracting noises often found in open-plan offices. Mulford Plastics offers not just acoustic products but a suite of plastic and construction products including acrylic and woven polyester sheets (Zintra).

“By incorporating noise-reducing materials, strategic space design and designated quiet zones, businesses can create work environments that foster focus, productivity and overall employee wellbeing – a key factor in attracting and retaining talent in the post-pandemic landscape,” says Mulford’s David Johnson.

Acoustic design is increasingly integrating with sustainable practices, marking a significant trend in the field. This approach prioritises energy efficiency, waste minimisation and material reuse, reflecting a broader commitment to environmental stewardship within the industry.

“Eco-friendly acoustic solutions are in high demand,” he adds.
“Materials like mycelium (mushroom-based), combinations of upcycled materials and bio-based composites are paving the way. One of Mulford’s most popular products available now is saveBOARD – a durable, acoustic and customisable building material that is made of recycled packaging and cartons.”

In the next few years, the demand for sustainable products will only increase. Building codes and regulations will play a vital role in ensuring Australia reaches its emission targets, which will impact the products on offer and used across all industries. As such, it presents a challenge for continuous innovation in this space.

Sustainability is a significant factor driving demand for our offerings, says Wallace. There’s a growing preference for eco-friendly and health-conscious materials in office environments.
“Our commitment to using sustainable, non-toxic materials aligns with this trend as our products contribute to indoor air quality and overall wellness. This alignment with the wellness trend not only meets the current demand but also positions Specfurn as a forward-thinking provider of acoustic solutions tailored to the modern, health-conscious workplace.”

The requirement for low environmental impact products and human health is growing rapidly, adds Knauf’s Kelly Watson.
In response, Knauf has developed an innovative Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) system to meet this challenge. Knauf CLT systems is a lightweight
solution that incorporates a familiar and established plasterboard system to suit a variety of applications and performance requirements including fire resistance, acoustic performance and sustainability.

CSR continues to explore new and innovative ways to manufacture and source sustainable, high-performance products that contribute to creating safe and enjoyable spaces for the occupants, says Berrell.

“CSR will focus on sustainability as a key strategic pillar of the business which is demonstrated through the sourcing of sustainable raw materials, optimising operational process to reduce energy and water consumption and working with several international suppliers to source and distribute high performance acoustic products to our customers.”

Sustainability has become an intrinsic component of every thoughtful design process and is woven into every facet of Autex’s operations. From sourcing and product design, manufacturing and minimising waste during production and install, sustainability is at the core of what the company does. This comprehensive integration of sustainability into the business gives rise to a diverse range of initiatives aimed at constantly improving its environmental footprint and pushing the boundaries of industry-leading sustainable technology.

“As the acoustics industry and manufacturing technology continues to evolve, new opportunities for innovation will arise,” says Autex’s Martina Kramer.
“We have implemented a number of carbon reduction initiatives within our operations. These include increasing the energy efficiency of our plant and equipment by commissioning more efficient manufacturing lines, upgrading all lighting across our core manufacturing sites to LED and upgrading the variable speed drives (VSDs) on all auxiliary equipment.

“At our core manufacturing facility, we have made the strategic choice to support an energy provider that generates electricity through 100 per cent renewable sources: wind, water and solar.”

Additionally, acoustic materials are no longer just about sound absorption. They are being integrated with lighting, air-purifying elements and even smart technology for adaptable room acoustics. The balance between aesthetic-forward design and functionality is blending closer every day.
The dual focus on improving spaces and protecting the environment underscores the evolving role of acoustics in today’s world. Balancing this demand for sustainability with performance will be a key focus for all; technology and ‘smart acoustics’ will play a vital role in this space.

Digital printing technology further enhances this by allowing for precise, customisable acoustic solutions. These innovations not only reduce environmental impact but also cater to a wide range of acoustic needs, ensuring spaces are not only aesthetically pleasing but also acoustically optimised for everyone’s benefit.

The appeal of digital prints lies in their ability to personalise and transform spaces with unique visuals. This customisation enables clients to reflect their brand identity or personal style while achieving necessary acoustic performance. The integration of digital art into acoustic solutions represents an intersection of technology, art and functionality that many clients find

attractive.
These products combine natural aesthetics with effective sound management, appealing to a growing interest in biophilic design and sustainable materials. Their versatility in application and design options makes them suitable for a wide range of spaces, from corporate offices to educational institutions.

“3D modelling and simulation are changing the game. Traditional acoustic analysis relied heavily on blueprints and calculations, now 3D modelling tools enable visual representation of how sound waves propagate within a space,” says Mulford.

“These highly accurate visualisations of sound behaviour allow our clients to experiment and experience sound before they select their products and design the space. There are also new cases of manufacturers using AI and reactive technology to reshape acoustics boards and materials in real-time, reacting to data it receives to adapt spaces such as concert halls and recording studios, exciting stuff,” he enthuses.

For Specfurn, the integration of 3D technology is part of its future strategy. Specifically, the company plans to utilise 3D technology to create detailed mockup plans, enabling its clients to visualise how specific panels or designs will look in their space more accurately.

“This approach will not only improve decision-making but also ensure that our solutions are perfectly tailored to meet our clients’ needs. The biggest challenge we foresee is keeping pace with the fast-evolving technological landscape and ensuring our team remains at the forefront of these advancements to continue providing cutting-edge acoustic solutions,” says Wallace.

Knauf BIM WIZARD® is a plug in for Autodesk® Revit® and Graphisoft® ArchiCAD® for PC and MAC. BIM WIZARD is a time saving tool to select the correct wall or ceiling systems without leaving the BIM environment. Knauf prioritises digitisation and creating digital tools that showcase Knauf products and solutions to enable building professionals to work faster and smarter.

In the future, we will expect more from the spaces we live and work in, the focus on quality and comfort of spaces will increase and acoustic products play a big part in this.
Higher acoustic standards with various green rating systems will continue to grow and even a revision of the minimum NCC standards may be on the cards.
But the products architects will want to specify need to be ethical and sustainable. Products with transparency around where raw materials have been sourced, how they are sourced (environmental impact) and who they are sourced by (modern slavery).

Equifax-Fitout by Gapcomm Projects

Gapcomm Projects is proud to showcase the newly designed and delivered fitout for their client, Equifax. The fitout occupies three storeys of the boutique commercial development at ‘2 Blue Street’ in North Sydney. Equifax relocated its Sydney office into the exciting new space, which presented an opportunity to craft a positive, human-centric workplace experience tailored to its brand personality.

Gapcomm’s team of Interior Designers, Project and Site Managers has established a collaborative relationship with their client, working together from concept to completion, ensuring the resulting project exceeded expectations. Taking a holistic approach on the design, the finished space prioritises workday functionality but also promotes collaboration, increased wellbeing, and integrates a variety of both quiet and social spaces within the working environment to be enjoyed.

Entering the main reception space on Level Six, the Equifax brand is prominent, featuring sculptural signage and a striking, corporate red colour-pop, in an otherwise warm and natural finishes palette. Also in reception is a creative interpretation of a global network map, portrayed like a three-dimensional piece of artwork, fostering a sense of affiliation for employees within the global company. The company’s brand values and identity are ingrained subtly through the space using colour, shape, graphics and wayfinding.

A welcoming feeling is achieved throughout by use of textural materials and soft tones. Highlights of colour, using Equifax’s corporate colour palette, are featured sparingly and in muted variations, portraying a sense of comfort. Carefully curated furniture selections alongside hired and purchased artwork and décor accessories helps deliver a cohesive ambiance across the entire space.

Strategic spatial planning optimises the building’s location, with the aim of allowing all employees to access the panoramic Sydney Harbour views. The layout embraces natural light provided through the large windows, and makes the most of the furnished, open-air balconies. Sculptural dimension was achieved by integrating angles and curves into the interior layout, with the purpose of creating distinct zones, as well as introducing visual intrigue.

The design and fitout of the space has proven successful in delivering a workplace that allows its employees to seamlessly navigate between home and office. The adoption of a hybrid workplace model has played a pivotal role in fostering flexibility, which was a key element understood when establishing the design strategy. Attributing to its success was the delivery of more meeting areas, in a variety of sizes and a diverse range of collaboration spaces.

Prioritising employee well-being was important to our client and is reflected in the design. There is an emphasis on collaboration, with strategically designed areas throughout the floor plan aimed at enhancing teamwork and interaction. Wellness elements include balconies and gardens, as well as a combination of live and artificial greenery integrated through the interior. A dedicated wellness room includes yoga mats, reading material and a bookable massage chair. Both quiet zones and social spaces have been provided, shared across three floors, enabling accessibility to these for all employees. There are kitchens and break-out spaces provided on each level of the fitout, creating a sense of community and belonging.

Versitility was important, considering flexibility and future growth. This is exemplified by the Hub area on Level Six, which can easily transition from a day-to-day work zone into a large, hospitality space when required. This space, with its large balcony, barbecue, and café facilities, enables Equifax to host events from company-wide town hall style meetings or fully catered functions within their own premises.

From a functional perspective, and critical to the success of the project, was the integration of technology and consideration to acoustics which formed part of the design from the onset. Acoustics were meticulously addressed through both material selection and construction methods, ensuring both a highly functional and comfortably quiet workplace. Acoustically engineered solutions provide sound-proof meeting rooms and a quiet open plan office is delivered by providing designated quiet rooms, huddle spaces and a number of Square Bear retreats, to allow conversation to be removed from the open space.

Positive feedback from the client highlights the successful design and fitout by the team at Gapcomm Projects. The delivery of Equifax’s new space has been credited to reshaping office culture and enhancing overall happiness among their employees.

Brunello Cucinelli-Fitout by TD Shopfitting

Emerging as a standout presence in Sydney’s bustling CBD, amid the revitalized MLC fashion district along Castlereagh Street, is the debut flagship store of esteemed fashion label Brunello Cucinelli in Australia. Handpicked for their esteemed reputation and a proven track record of delivering prompt and successful fitouts for numerous fashion outlets, TD Shopfitting (TD) was entrusted with this prestigious project.

The project involved amalgamating two adjacent stores, necessitating structural alterations and the creation of a new penetration opening for a bespoke lift installation. TD managed the project comprehensively, handling both design and construction aspects, adeptly adapting Brunello Cucinelli’s international design to meet local standards. With precise site measurements and meticulous workshop drawings provided by TD, the designated Italian fabrication team crafted custom-made, high-end display units, seamlessly installed by TD’s on-site crew.

As the final touch, the removal of protective vinyl from the shopfront glass unveiled the extraordinary flagship store of Brunello Cucinelli. Patrons were left captivated by its refined elegance and sophisticated ambiance, reflecting the seamless collaboration between TD and Brunello Cucinelli.

THE UNIQUENESS

Pioneering Luxury Retail Presence: This project serves as Brunello Cucinelli’s inaugural venture into the Australian market, making it a landmark event in the country’s luxury fashion retail landscape. It introduces Australian consumers to the brand’s renowned craftsmanship and style, establishing a new standard for luxury retail experiences in the region.

Architectural Innovation: The exceptionally high void/atrium within the store sets it apart architecturally, creating a distinct and captivating ambiance. This feature showcases innovation in design and construction, demonstrating a commitment to pushing boundaries and creating memorable spaces that resonate with customers.

Consistent Design Aesthetic: The consistent use of a special rendering in the same colour throughout the store contributes to a harmonious and visually striking environment. This attention to detail and coherence in design elements elevate the overall aesthetic appeal of the space, enhancing the brand’s image and reinforcing its identity.

Overall, the combination of Brunello Cucinelli’s debut in Australia, architectural innovation, and meticulous design execution makes this project truly unique and noteworthy in the realm of luxury retail.

THE CHALLENGES

The journey of the Brunello Cucinelli project was shaped by several significant challenges. Adhering to local regulations and securing the necessary approvals added complexity, requiring negotiation and meticulous attention to detail. The exceptionally high void/atrium within the store posed a formidable technical challenge, demanding precise engineering and construction expertise to realize. Maintaining a zero-tolerance approach to material selection throughout the project was crucial, necessitating rigorous quality control and meticulous attention to detail.

Coordinating with an Italian fabrication team for the custom-made high-end display units involved international collaboration and logistics management, requiring effective communication and coordination efforts to overcome language barriers, time zone differences, and logistical challenges. Addressing these hurdles demanded careful planning, collaboration, and expertise to ensure the successful execution of the Brunello Cucinelli project.

Mobilia-Fitout by Yarra Valley Commercial

Longstanding luxury retailer, Mobilia, demanded nothing less than perfection when bringing their Richmond based showroom to life.

Family-owned Australian company, Mobilia, curates and represents the world’s most iconic and innovative furniture brands, design masters and pieces. The flagship showroom represented a progressive approach to furniture retail, combining a series of distinct mono-brand spaces woven into the architecture of the building. A fitout of this scale was naturally complex, but the YVC team was up for the challenge, ensuring the turnkey project was seamless and that client expectations were exceeded.

High ceilings and grand volumes create “gallery-like spaces”, that offer a unique atmosphere to showcase each of the brands that reside within. The minimal aesthetic of clean lines, lofty ceilings and a palette of raw materials such as perforated metal and brushed aluminium provide the perfect backdrop to showcase the personality of Mobilia’s leading brands.

The fitout, collections, and design direction were inspired by the newest worldwide releases and mono-brand concepts. Interesting features include a footprint of the mezzanine floor that was crafted and installed both beneath and, in the ceiling, above. The LED-lit barisole ceiling structure from France adds European style and flair to one of the many unique spaces. A circular finish seen on some of the wall ends was achieved with a polished plaster applied and troughed to shape.

The most challenging aspect of this five-month project doubled as the project highlight. Such a huge amount of work and mindfulness became the challenge, resulting in the delivery of an effortless, minimal aesthetic – open space and clean lines being the highlight.
Notes from the Project Team

Design and quality were non-negotiable, and the Yarra Valley Commercial team delivered. Sarah Langley from Mobilia commented “We appreciated the team’s dedication to precision and craftsmanship” adding “the mindfulness Yarra Valley Commercial provided was second to none.”

Yarra Valley Commercial founder Scott Emery notes “The YVC team was committed to breathing life into this timeless design. It was a privilege to create a space that these premium international brands would be showcased in.”

The Yarra Valley Commercial team deliverables included CAD construction, and in-house production of all bespoke joinery items.

Breezy elegance perfect for pampering

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Serendipity is a hair salon based in the newly developed Newport Marketplace precinct IN QUEENSLAND. The client’s vision was to create a space that was clean, soft, modern and reflective of its coastal surroundings.

Spatial planning for the salon was determined by the two main entry points into the tenancy. The first entry point is located opposite the
esplanade and is highly visible from the external passageway. The second entry point is located towards the car park. Each tenancy in this zone was permitted an external blade sign and an opportunity to display non-illuminated signage on the shopfront glazing for both entry points. Illuminated signage was displayed behind the reception counter to provide additional signage which would be utilized with the high visibility through the shopfront glazing.

The reception counter is located opposite the entry and is near the waiting area. The counter is curved in form and cladded in a Tasmanian Oak dowl timber. On the back of the reception counter is the colour bar and back of house. This room was a challenge and required a thoughtful and creative approach to ensure that the room presented well aesthetically from the front of house, and performed functionally within. This room houses the kitchenette, services and storage. The room is curved in form and cladded in Tasmanian Oak down timber. The colour bar is built into the room and finished in a beige solid surface, neutral laminated and feature brass accents. The hair service zone runs along the edge of the salon and the hair washing zone and dressing areas are positioned on the opposite side, divided by a low height screen cladded also in Tasmanian Oak dowl timber.

The flooring is finished in a concrete look tile which was selected to ensure longevity and durability against dyes and salon products. A Tasmanian Oak laminate is applied to all feature bench work, shelving and joinery to match the dowl timber used throughout. Brass aluminium metal is used on the skirting for all feature joinery including BOH and colour bar. Brass curved handles and rounded mirrors were selected for continuity throughout the space. Tanned leather and emerald green velvet upholstered furniture pieces were selected to soften the interior and tie in with the modern coastal theme. Live planting and feature artworks are used to add the finishing style touches required to complete the design.

Ashlea Pearce

Ashlea Pearce is making waves in the recruitment industry.

At just 28 years old, she has already spent over six years supplying labour hire and recruitment services to the cabinet making and Shopfitting industry, placing more than 2,890 people into jobs.

It hasn’t been an easy journey, with challenges to recruit workers known across the industry, especially during the pandemic, but Ashlea says building genuine long-term relationships with both candidates and clients helps.

“For cabinet makers & shopfitters, being personable goes a long way to building rapport – “I’ve spent a lot of time at workshops, sites and on the phone understanding their professional desires. The occasional coffee and Hi-Vis shirt goes a long way,” Ashlea says.

“I’ve dealt with many candidates who are super grateful after we have found them full-time work. Many have been working casually and if they have a mortgage or have kids, they are so thankful when they are placed into full-time roles. Others love working casually because they like the variety of work as every company has a different style of work.

“Once you build a good network, people end up calling you. At the end of the day, I like helping clients and candidates find the right fit.”
One of her biggest achievements has been becoming the only recruiter on the QLD IFA Committee. This has allowed her to work closely with clients and other suppliers in the industry, which has been a great source of professional growth.

“Being on the IFA QLD Committee for the past three years has given me more insight in the industry, different projects, safety and legislation and the ability to find out about things happening in the industry first-hand so I can pass this along to our workforce.”

When Ashlea first started in recruitment at the age of 19, she wasn’t aware of Blue Collar Trades at Nobul, nor had experience in the joinery industry.
“It was extremely daunting, to be honest,” she admits.

“I would spend so much time studying it and learning about it and since then I have learnt so much working within the industry, I’m now at a point where people come to me for advice which is very rewarding.” Currently studying for a Diploma in HR & Business, Ashlea is committed to continuous learning and development.

Over the past 12 months, Ashlea’s team has grown by an additional two people, and she was named in Nobul’s high achiever club last year.
Ashlea’s passion for the job comes from being a people person. She finds it extremely rewarding to help tradespeople find jobs that best suit their skill sets and help businesses find staff.
Nobul Directors Tim Killian and Mark Lee have been a significant source of support and inspiration, treating her like family since she joined the company.

“Ashlea is one of the most driven and determined individuals I have had the pleasure of working with,” Mark says.
“She is incredibly respected by her clients and our team internally because of her ability to deliver and her proven track record as a consistent high performer.”

As one of the few females in the industry, the Brisbane-based recruiter understands the challenges of working in a male-dominated field. However, she believes in Nobul’s genuine and honest approach to recruitment, which aligns with her own values.

Looking to the future, Ashlea has big plans. In 10 years, at almost 40, she hopes to be managing a team at Nobul.
Ideally, she would like to see Nobul extend its presence across Australia, and it’s clear that Ashlea is one to watch in the industry. Watch this space!

Ta-Kumi-The Essence of Japan in Madrid

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Ta-Kumi Madrid, the new culinary reference in the vibrant Spanish capital, further enriches the city’s gastronomic scene. Following the successful concept of its establishments in Malaga and Marbella, Ta- Kumi takes on the challenge of conquering Japanese cuisine lovers in this bustling setting.

The interior design studio, Paco Lago Interioriza, has captured the sober and minimalist essence of Ta-Kumi Marbella to transmit it to the heart of the capital.
The restaurant in Madrid unfolds in a three-story space, flooded with light and transformed into an intimate atmosphere that combines elements such as dark woods, cement and fabrics, enhanced by warm lighting. This fusion between the authenticity of Japanese tradition and a modern aesthetic creates a unique experience.

Inspiration from Japanese fabric prints is applied conceptually, giving the space a sense of movement and dynamism. Traditional elements take on new applications and the furnishings evolve into bolder designs, building a prelude to a playful and unique dining experience.

In a short time of its opening Ta-Kumi Madrid has already been included in the recommendations of the prestigious Michelin Guide, demonstrating its culinary excellence. In this restaurant, diners will embark on a gastronomic journey where product and technique are the fundamental pillars.

Ta-Kumi Madrid has become a gastronomic must for lovers of Japanese cuisine in the Spanish capital. Here, culinary excellence meets a carefully designed environment to create a complete experience for all the senses.

Adaptive reuse wins the day at BVN’s UQ Brisbane City

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BVN’s redesign of this heritage site in Brisbane features a varied range of functional spaces and long-term flexibility.

The University of Queensland (UQ) purchased state heritage-listed 308 Queen Street and 88 Creek Street in 2019, and its functional intentions were clear from the start: to establish its first official city location. This came, of course, with the most functional of demands for teaching and creative spaces, but it also represented a place to bring together students, staff, alumni and the wider community.

BVN’s approach centres on adaptive reuse in a building that has in fact three distinct layers of history. A 2008 annexe addition, designed by Donovan Hill, provides 450-metre open floor plates, while 308 Queen Street is a fine example of late nineteenth-century architecture that originally housed the National Australia Bank.

The oldest part of the site is now defined by a series of differentiated spaces designed to enhance the uniqueness of each setting. BVN principal, Brian Donovan, explains: “Essentially, we were able to leverage the heritage qualities of the building as well as the opportunities of the contemporary annexe to inform a characteristic architectural and interior design response. The brief sought a space that would engage and bring people together, and create communal areas to support teaching, learning, and postgraduate workshops and engagement. A fundament of that idea is to have variable spaces and choices for how they are to be occupied — the building facilitates that superbly.”

Three types of spaces are used as the organisational devices to meet the brief’s functional requirements: Teaching Suites, Creative Suites and Engagement Spaces.
The latter includes the primary gathering space located in the original banking chamber and, as Donovan notes, features “highly flexible furnishing arrangements conceived to facilitate a wide range of uses – concierge arrival, individual study, group meetings and intimate gatherings along with major speaking and engagement events.”
Above this arrival space are a set of heritage-listed rooms that have been newly adapted into contemporary Creative Suites, while the third type of space is the open floor plate with an emphasis on flexibility.

Just as adaptive reuse aims at a balance between the old and new, BVN’s project at UQ has designed spaces to be unique and differentiated at the same time as encouraging wider user engagement. Its city centre location allows for a certain cross-pollination as a variety of users come and go.

“The original intent of the project was to create a space that would be accessible and engaging for its community,” says Donovan. “When I walk through the site I see many different types of people, from younger students to elderly people, partners and alumni. We can see that the areas of the building that are open to the extended university community are genuinely being used as another communal space in the city, and by a diverse range of people — in my mind, that constitutes success.”

Illustrating the rich experiences on offer at the new UQ Brisbane City, Donovan concludes: “Our approach aimed to demonstrate how the vision [to design a space fostering engagement between students, staff, partners and alumni] could be brought to fruition through leveraging the opportunities that were already occurring inside the building – such as the utilisation of the more flexible, universal spaces within the annexe alongside the beauty and specificity of the heritage-listed rooms.”

Meika Doonan From DECO Australia

The indomitable spirit of the Doonan family is woven in DECO Australia’s tale of success. Established in 2004, DECO Australia is celebrating 20 years in the building industry – the brainchild of CEO and visionary Ross Doonan. In its next chapter, Ross’s three daughters are helping to steer the national business in the dynamic and ever-changing world of aluminium building products.

One of Ross’s daughters – Meika DOONAN – leads the strategy and governance side of the business. Her trajectory from ‘business chat’ around the family dining table to joining the ranks among industry leaders epitomises her dedication. We talked to Meika about what it’s like growing up in a family business, innovation within the fast-paced construction world and how she thrived in a male-dominated industry.

“I remember moments around the dining table when dad first started the business where he would bring home business names and logos and we’d evaluate and decide which ones we liked best,” Meika remembers.

Propelled by her father’s bold ambition, a desire to help the family and soak up her dad’s business acumen, Meika embraced the opportunity to spearhead operations at DECO at just 21 – a decision that would define her career journey.

“I had been working since finishing high school for another business and saw it as an opportunity for career growth and development – and boy it sure did that.
“I was 21 and thought I could help get the business up and running and figured I would then move onto something else. Nineteen years later, I’m still here,” she laughs.

Navigating family dynamics and embracing change

Admitting that working with family can be a delicate balance, Meika wouldn’t have it any other way.
“Working with family can be challenging, but also rewarding. I’m lucky to see my parents most days and I get to see my sisters Ella and Clare’s involvement and growth in the business as well as other family members – it is a different dynamic to a typical workplace.

“One of the biggest challenges is trying to avoid letting business talk take over at family gatherings. There are always little things that bob up and the temptation to just quickly discuss is hard to ignore, but it is something we actively do otherwise it’s a slippery slope and we end up in an unscheduled meeting during a Sunday lunch.”

Nearly two decades in the business, Meika stands as a stalwart champion of DECO’s ethos, her unwavering commitment navigating the company through tumultuous waters during the GFC and a global pandemic, and triumphant victories alike.

“DECO started at a time when timber alternatives didn’t exist in the Australian market, we were the best kept secret in the architectural building sector with limited resources and it was a hard slog to overcome barriers and carve out the market. It was something I believed in – to my core.”

Boasting around 120 employees, DECO is known for quality, customer service, and innovation in the marketplace.
“When I look back on the past 20 years at DECO, what stands out the most is the collective effort of our team and the strong reputation we’ve built.
“We also have such a positive and motivated team culture. It’s funny, because at one stage we were known and referred to as the ‘happy orange people’ – also due to the colour of our work uniforms and branding at the time.”

Championing diversity

Amid the backdrop of industry evolution and innovation, keeping up with the trends in the market has played a big part in DECO’s success and Meika admits that it is encouraging to see more acceptance of timber alternative as consumers see the benefits of sustainable, durable and low-maintenance products.
“As the first in the market with our timber-look product range, today there is definitely more saturation of timber-alternatives. Our product team are continuously working on new product designs to ensure we can meet the current design styles and remain the market leaders at the forefront.

“People are increasingly time poor these days and if we can help by providing good quality, aesthetically pleasing and durable products that require very little maintenance and lets them enjoy life more, then that makes us happy.”

As well as products evolving, so too has culture and gender equity in the industry over the past two decades – albeit at a much slower pace in Meika’s opinion.
As she reflects on her role as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry, Meika says she “sees things changing”.
“I can recall many instances in the early days – 18 plus years ago – where I would explain something to a male customer or supplier and would get pushback – only to have my male cousin jump on the phone and re-iterate this exactly with the wording I would have used, and suddenly it was acceptable.

“These situations would drive me nuts!
“The landlord of the site we were on at the time refused to speak to me if dad was away. I could recount many other instances of similar nature that were incredibly difficult to navigate how best to approach, overcome, educate, and not let it derail my confidence in my ability and position in the business.”

But Meika maintains DECO is different – a topic she is passionate when discussing.
“We’ve always employed many women in our factory since day one. Whenever we give factory tours, there is always a comment from our visitors that they’ve noticed how many women we employ and how impressive that is.

“I feel a strong sense of pride on this and equally pleased that it is noticed.
“I really do believe that industries benefit from the diversity of thinking of women in our industries alongside men, and the different natural strengths that different genders possess. I think businesses flourish if this is recognised equally and structured to complement each other.
“I grew up with my dad always challenging the norm. As the father of all daughters – he was also very insistent that a girl can do anything a boy could do.”

Volunteering within the sector also gave insight into how the wheels turn slowly when it comes to gender representation.
“I was on one of our industry boards for a few years, and I was very aware that I was not only the youngest person but also the only female.

“I was pleased to represent a different perspective on matters that perhaps for years hadn’t experienced the diversity. I got along well with everyone, we all were volunteering our time, so the passion of the group was great to be a part of, and I was very proud to end up as the first female president on the board.
“More recently I have come across female tradies owning what they do and doing it well and this excites me.”

The great balancing act

Referred to by a business coach as a ‘pace-setter’, Meika says her leadership has evolved over the years and she has learnt the importance of ‘letting go’ – both at work and at home.
Inspired by Australian author and editor Mia Freedman, Meika says she has also gained insights into often unattainable work-life balance.
“In one of her books, she calls bluff on the concept of work life balance. It is not possible to achieve a true equal balance always – there will always be something demanding more of your time from one sphere – sometimes it will be work, sometimes it will be family,” Meika explains.

As a mum of three, she felt enlightened by the concept and realised she was trying to achieve the unachievable.
“I am much calmer about these pressures and the juggle. I put more time into work and go over and above when I need to, and equally into my family life when I need to.
“Life outside work these days mostly revolves around my kids, and we are building a new house – so this is sucking up a lot of time. When I can, I take time out with extended family and friends.”

As Meika navigates the complexities of leadership and parenthood, her strategic awareness alongside DECO’s commitment to innovation and customer-centric solutions will no doubt illuminate a path of possibility and progress for the next decade and beyond.