Global professional services law firm Pinsent Masons recently opened its latest office in the West, further adding to its Australian representation on the East coast in Melbourne and Sydney. To create a customer specific interior that was appropriate to place, Design Theory was commissioned to design the project and this new Perth office is a dynamic and unique working environment for both staff and clients.

Located in Fremantle, Design Theory was established by Evan and Lisa Reeves, and the practice has completed a plethora of projects that span the sectors of workplace, retail, education and residential design. The ability to listen to clients, understand their needs and forge relationships underpins Design Theory’s credo and sets it apart from its peers. With a broad range of experience the designers bring to a project a multi-layered and innovative approach that creates custom interiors that are specific to both people and place.

The new office interior for Pinsent Masons has been designed as an agile and flexible space to accommodate the local workforce but also reflect the global value system of the corporation – the ideas of being approachable, bold and connected. Lisa Reeves commented, ““Early on in the project we placed ‘Understanding’ at the centre of our design process.”

Pinsent Masons is located on the 26th level of Allendale Square on St Georges Terrace in Perth and the office affords spectacular views of the city below as well as a visual connection to the surrounding landscape. Design Theory developed a concept from this connectivity that focused on ‘celebrating people and celebrating lifestyle’ where work, collaboration, relaxation, privacy and socialising co-exist to complement each other.

Form has been crafted for function in this workplace and the human dimension is paramount in the design. There is a generosity of space however this is presented on a more intimate scale that helps to foster relationships with clients. The spatial plan has been designed more as a residence and various rooms of a house and, through the layering of textiles, there is a warmth within the interior. Reeves added, “To see this approach translate into a built space where can you can feel a real tangible warmth as you walk in, well that’s very rewarding.”

The material palette has been derived from the colours and textures of the Swan River and Kings Park, to add context and also blur the lines between the inside and outside. Pattern has been incorporated through hanging acoustic screens from Studio Vonk, textural carpets and there are colour pops in wall lights and joinery.

Through expert planning and fine interior detailing, Pinsent Masons’ new Perth office has become a home away from home for those who work there and those who visit. Understanding that the benefits of a bespoke office provides a place of well being and productivity, Design Theory has created a stellar interior that exemplifies the values of its client, provides comfort and facility and complements the physical landscape of Perth.

Photography by Jack Lovell