Saatchi & Saatchi - Smart Design Studio

The reconfiguring of a dockside warehouse to accommodate the new Saatchi & Saatchi headquarters in the historical Rocks area of Sydney implied an affirming of the coherency of the original structure, along with the creation of a highly functional, completely contemporary space.

We opted for an inherently simple layout, punctuated by abstract, planar wall elements that loosely define open-plan spaces. Workstations from Knoll, featuring black tops float over structural bronze table-legs, reinforcing a sense of understated confidence. Partitioning between facing desks was adapted to suit the needs of those users. Those who required more privacy eg Accounts, have taller partitions, and those who required more open exchange eg Creatives have almost none – to promote a collaborative work environment.

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All office and meeting rooms (with the exception of the boardroom) are inboard, so that harbour view and light are available to all. The new mezzanine was constructed as a dedicated project space.

From a purely architectural perspective, the Saatchi & Saatchi refurbishment incorporates technical advances such as energy efficient heat-recovery AC that connects with Sydney Harbour heat exchanging (being constructed by Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority), a digital lighting system and a new elevator (lit by an artwork that extends the full height of the light well) providing barrier-free access to all floors. Completed 2011.