A workplace to call home

The workplace has undergone a monumental transformation in the last decade, where the concept of a strict 9-5 routine is slowly disappearing. A new-age work model has taken place – employees are immersed into a daily environment that puts an emphasis on a healthy work-life balance. Built on the pillars of a creative and forward-thinking culture, the new AUDIO HQ is a workplace to call home.

Nestled in the inner-suburb of Petrie Terrace in Brisbane, this unique workplace was designed by Jane McConnell of Queensland-based firm, Jane McConnell Interior Design (JMID).

Created for the people, by the people – the design brief for AUDIO HQ recognises the need for a functional, dynamic and human-centric space open 24/7. The move was done under the direction of Southern Cross Austereo’s (SCA) executive general manager, Damon Rielly, who envisioned an all-inclusive, balanced and vibrant working environment.

Working closely with Damon, a group of twelve staff members were heavily involved in designing the ideal office space for the move. Human experiences are at the heart of everything at SCA, which led to an office model that ensured the workplace, End-Of-Trip facilities and common areas are as welcoming and comfortable at all hours of the day and well into the night.

The spatial layout lends itself to a seamless experience throughout the whole office. Formal seating desks are arranged to encourage collaborative conversation, with breakout zones and lounge areas and a fully accessible staff café providing a space of recreation and relaxation.

The opulent green marble stone bench takes centre stage at the café. Not your ordinary staff area – this café showcases AUDIO HQ and SCA’s investment in employee satisfaction taking its rightful spot at the forefront of the design model.

Located in the central area of the office, a premium-grade La Marzocco coffee machine and hydrating systems such as the Zip HydroTap bring a thoughtful addition to the individual’s holistic experience during the workday.

A place for solace, the café area invites ample opportunity to rejuvenate with an environment that extends beyond the surface of design.

Finished in matte black, the Zip HydroTap offers instant filtered chilled, sparkling or boiling water, ensuring that the employees stay efficiently hydrated throughout the day with just one tap. Placed around the office, employees are spoilt with ease and accessibility of chilled, sparkling or boiling water from the Zip HydroTap inches away from their work zone.

The office boasts an expansive, open layout with an energetic and contemporary charm.

Jane responded to the brief with a distinct creative flair, creating a bold, playful yet sophisticated space. Hues of deep blue, earthy greens and clean white adorn the space with embellishments of luxurious marble, painted timber and leather that elevate the work routine.

A crown jewel to the AUDIO HQ headquarters is the entertainment rooftop. This breathtaking spot embodies the youthful and exciting soul of the AUDIO HQ brand.

Featuring legendary views down Caxton Street and Suncorp Stadium, to Mt Coot-Tha, and all the way to the west past the iconic Red Hill Church – employees are able to bask in the glorious weather that Queensland is famous for while enjoying a refreshment from the Zip HydroTap and taking in the picturesque views.

Designing the workplace of the future – AUDIO HQ stimulates genuine conversation and artful thinking through a multi-functional and technologically innovative environment. The new office prides itself as one of the most advanced creative studios in the country, boasting a myriad of the newest digital and audio equipment.

A delight for visitors, The Audio Pod is the go-to place at the reception area to listen to music or their favourite podcast. Featuring state-of-the-art acoustics, the visitor is transported into a musical sanctuary inspired by a 1950s vinyl record listening station.

For those formal business meetings, clients are taken to The Sonic Boom Room, where they are fully immersed in content that has been specially developed ad created for them. A custom-designed, acoustically balanced, sensorial journey – this room is an experience like no other.

Through a collaborative relationship between SCA’s Damon Rielly, Jane McConnell and the greater SCA family, AUDIO HQ is a workplace that leads a better path to employee productivity and inspiring creativity.

Photography by Toby Scott.