At SMC, construction is well underway in the major capital works program that will transform the centre. Global strategy-led business solutions group Incorp have been engaged both as designers and project managers for the multi-million dollar scheme. The group specialises in the integration of people and place, and are experts in delivering future-facing workplaces.
For general manager Paul Davison, the collaboration with Incorp has been seamless given the previous work history that meant their designers and specialists already had a thorough knowledge of the building, an appreciation for its history and a understanding of the opportunities to be realised. “We have built a solid relationship with Incorp over the years and they always impress. Incorp’s architects look at spaces for more than their form to really maximise their business potential,” he explains. “Their values include being caring, curious, clever and courageous. You’ll definitely see these qualities play out throughout their solution, especially in the clever elements such as walls that are not simply walls. Instead they become design elements that accentuate a space rather than merely dividing a room”.
Senior interior designer at Incorp Junina Juhas is on site weekly and took a moment to share some of the concepts driving the design for the reinvigorated conference centre that will re-open in April 2019. Naturally, the timelessness of the original mid 20th century architecture by Joseland & Gilling provided a springboard for evolving the aesthetic for the new works.
According to Junina, the experience for conference centre delegates and guests will be elevated to that of visiting a luxury hotel at every touchpoint. “Tapping into the honesty of materials in the landmark SMC, the new design unveils existing off-form concrete and uses pattern and textures whilst still maintaining a minimalist suite of materials led by concrete and timber. Within the Brutalist backdrop, it’s about creating something with a heart which is warm and inviting,” she says.
Junina explains that the geometries expressed throughout SMC are a strong influence on the design concept. These range from the triangle and diamond patterns generated by the Freemasons’ square and compass emblem to the suspended metal prisms chandelier in the Grand Lodge and Banquet Hall, and will be referenced from the wall panelling down to the bespoke patterned carpets. “You’ll see pattern on pattern, done with respect and elegance,” she mentions, adding that lighting is subtle and accents certain feature walls with chevron panelling. The boardroom entry door is also chevron panelled with bespoke black stained solid timber handles.
On level 4, the new conference facilities are unique and perfectly pitched with the right mix of technology and amenities. The main feature ‘welcoming wall’ is fabricated from individual fibreglass concrete hexagons with a scattering of solid timber leaves, as an element of nature. Double glazed operable walls with custom patterned diamond leaf film of bronzes and rust colours. The ceilings feature solid timber linear acoustic panelling with black metal strips housing lighting and services.
“Whilst there is a rich patterning and a range of textures, the design is otherwise about restraint and celebrating the original architecture in a contemporary way,” says Junina.
Under Paul’s direction, the program to redevelop Level 4 into its own ‘centre within the centre’ has been extended to a soft refurbishment of the ground floor spaces that harness and draw Incorp’s design language into the arrival area, lift lobby and entrance from Goulburn St.
“The new design of Level 4 and upgrade of other spaces will provide a very attractive and welcoming choice for clients, as well as a very warm and inviting environment for delegates and guests in which to conduct their business,” notes Paul. “We’re looking forward to unveiling these new spaces after Easter this year”.
