Rather than tread a path towards a gimmicky ‘theme-park’ solution or generic office fitout, Marc & Co developed a sophisticated scheme that prioritised the use of local materials and details, to create a series of domestic-style spaces that provide visual connectivity across the floor plate, and take advantage of knockout views across the city.

“The clients brief for the main workspace was for it to be a hive of activity – noisy like a trading floor – to facilitate cross collaboration across different teams,” Gwaro says. The floors in this space were deliberately laid in timber, with carpet and patterned rugs used elsewhere in the fitout.

“To counteract the vibrant working spaces, we needed some quiet spaces – in addition to the informal meeting rooms – so we devised a technology-free, quiet space library, where people can undertake intensive work which may require uninterrupted concentration, or access the company’s growing collection of books,” Gwaro says. “It’s also used for time out: there’s a daybed in there and sometimes people grab a five minute snooze.”

Bluesky’s innovative approach to business is apparent from the moment visitors enter the office. There is no traditional reception desk in the lift lobby: instead, a narrow opening into a passage of fence palings leads to a lounge and reception area screened by a super lattice. Visitors can access the adjacent kitchen to mingle and converse with staff before formal meetings, breaking down the traditional boundaries between front- and back-of-house services.

Throughout the fitout, the material selection and detailing echoes the traditional Queenslander vernacular, with lattice, palings, screens and weatherboards all making an appearance. An amphitheatre decorated with inviting banquettes and a scattering of cushions is used for investor presentations and staff meetings. In the kitchen, a large custom-made table with hand-turned timber legs – which subtly express appreciation of local materials and craftsmanship – takes pride of place.

The informality of this setting encourages staff and visitors to gather round and socialise over tea, coffee or local craft beer, poured from a tap inside a concealed ‘Bond’ style mirrored bar.

“Our clients were happy to push the boundaries of what an office space can be, which is rare in the commercial world,” Gwaro says. “BlueSky is proud of the fact it is a Brisbane-based company with international reach. From the start, they encouraged us to challenge the expected and by abstracting traditional construction methods, the design aims to create memorable experiences

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Project Details

Photography | Alicia Taylor

Client | Blue Sky Alternative Investments

Location | Level 46, 111 Eagle Street, Brisbane

Size | 1,614 square-meters

Design | Marc&Co

Design Team | Angus Munro, Rachael Gwaro, Sam Bresnehan, Katie Hawgood, Naomi Edson, Adam Scott