Our Community House by Studio Tate

This workplace fitout, inside the former National Union of Workers headquarters in North Melbourne, harnesses the passion and energy of the social enterprise sector. The workplace is home to Our Community Group, an organization that provides technology support, training and tools to not-for-profit groups, and also encompasses co-working desks for other like-minded businesses.

Studio Tate’s design is underpinned by the need for transformation, allowing maximum adaptability as each tenant’s needs change. The floor plan is efficiently organized to balance co-working space, private work zones, a kitchen and dining precinct, and small and large breakout areas. Two buildings have been united to maximize access to natural light.

The concrete structure of one building and steel trusses and high-pitched ceiling of the other are contrasted with block colour, soft finishes and a rotating art collection. The project demonstrates how intelligent design can positively impact communication, productivity and wellbeing in this sector. Photography — Thomas Brooke Studio Tate — studiotate.com.au