Spec Suite Southbank, Brisbane.

Elevating Workspace Efficiency with Innovative Design.

Project Overview

In the heart of South Bank, Brisbane, the design vision for Marquette Properties was realised in partnership with PMG Group to create a speculative suite at Level 7, 189 Grey Street. The result is a space that does not just stand out but redefines excellence in commercial real estate. This project has also captured an opportunity to craft a workspace that resonated with the modern and playful ambience of South Bank with its uninterrupted skyline views and sprawling parkland.

Challenges and Objectives

The canvas was set, but the challenges were daunting. The primary objective was to achieve a 1:10 density ratio while maintaining a captivating and distinctive workspace in a fiercely competitive market. A key deliverable for the client was to include a flooring solution that seamlessly blended contemporary aesthetics with superior durability, safety, acoustics and user comfort.

The Flooring Solution

Milliken’s Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT) became the cornerstone of this innovative project as it offered the desired aesthetic but has also been engineered to meet stringent safety standards. Not only does it meet Class 33 certification for heavy commercial use, it is designed with a 0.55mm transparent wear layer that protects the print visuals and ensures that the product performs in heavy foot traffic. The FlexForm? construction within the Mixed Formations LVT chosen Collection made it easy to install, and the glass fibre layer ensured dimensional stability, eliminating tenting or gapping. ProGuard MAX?, with a reinforced polyurethane coating, provides scratch & stain resistance and eliminates the need for additional finishes or harsh chemical treatments. With a high-density core and engineered vinyl backing an engineered balance is achieved which provides stability and durability of the product and long-term performance.

Building Sustainability with Our Holistic Approach to Material Health, Carbon Neutrality and Circularity.

Adopting a comprehensive approach, we prioritise material health as a fundamental aspect that propels circularity. Utilising materials devoid of harmful chemicals stands as a crucial avenue towards facilitating the recycling of products at the end of their life cycle. Milliken’s LVTs are 100% ortho-phthalate free with all production waste granulated and recycled into backing production to create an internal closed loop recycling process. Our commitment to transparency is underscored by our products, offering 100% visibility into materials up to 100 ppm. This commitment extends beyond mere transparency; it is a dedicated focus on enhancing material health, which forms the essence of our pledge to mitigate climate change. Notably, our carpet, resilient flooring, and entrance flooring tiles are designed with recyclability in mind.

When you opt for M/PACT? products, rest assured that your choice contributes to a carbon-neutral footprint. Our carbon-neutral products offset the carbon footprint associated with raw materials and manufacturing. This is achieved through the utilisation of 3rd party Verified Carbon Standard Credits, actively supporting renewable energy and carbon reduction technologies in the battle against climate change.

*The carbon footprint is calculated and verified through an ISO14025/ISO14040 compliant Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and is published in a third-party Environmental Product Declaration (EPD).

Enhancing the User Experience

Understanding the impact of workplace acoustics on well-being, the project considered the principles of the WELL Building Standard. Studies have shown that open-office environments can increase stress levels and decrease motivation and creativity. Productivity can plummet by up to 66%. Milliken’s LVT flooring solution create a more comfortable acoustic environment, boosting concentration, memory, focus, morale, and productivity. Also, in keeping with Milliken’s long-standing culture of sustainability, Milliken’s LVT products are 100% Ortho-Phthalate free.

Creating a Healing and Connected Environment with Natural Textures.

The careful selection of the palette, anchored by Milliken’s LVT Mixed Formations Collection – Made of Stone in the colour “Ivory,” played a pivotal role in shaping the overall aesthetic. This flooring choice effectively grounded the amalgamation of warm and natural materials and colours, injecting a contemporary allure into the space. The Ivory hue exuded vibrancy, contributing to an atmosphere that seamlessly blended lively spatial energy with comfort, fostering an environment conducive to heightened productivity.

Creating a serene nexus between the familiar comforts of home and the professional ambience of the office, the Mixed Formations LVT Collection, with its natural surfaces reminiscent of the outdoors, added a distinct touch. The Made of Stone design in Ivory colourway selected is one of five stone patterns in the collection, each showcasing a variety of dimensional tones. We invite you to explore our approach to crafting a healing environment by incorporating these natural textures.

In close collaboration with PMG Group, Milliken meticulously curated the flooring selection, ensuring that the designer’s vision was not just realised but enhanced, remarking that -?

“Our collaboration with Milliken has been an absolute pleasure, and we value the strong relationship we’ve built. Milliken has consistently proven to be an invaluable partner, offering great support and guidance for all our project inquiries.”

Every entryway element was strategically crafted to captivate and engage occupants from the moment they stepped out of the lift lobby. The integrated planter box served as an enchanting focal point that drew people into the suite. This thoughtful detail connected the interior with the outdoor environment, creating a harmonious transition. Mixed Formations LVT - Made of Stone Collection was pivotal in captivating this visual journey with its granular elements, arranged with an irregular touch, successfully concealing joints, and providing an uninterrupted and continuous surface that elevates the overall visual experience. Moreover, the strategic placement of key views of the cityscape and river, utilising the building’s glazing for the boardroom and work zone, ensured unobstructed vistas and allowed abundant natural sunlight to flood the space. The kitchen and breakout area is framed from the entryway, providing an intriguing glimpse into the heart of the office and evoking curiosity and discovery, with the natural textured LVT flooring providing a visual link from the entry and arrival areas, seamlessly extending into the kitchen and meeting rooms.

The kitchen and breakout area boasted standout elements—a suspended coffered feature ceiling adorned with pendant lights, tiered seating with a featured screen, and a monolithic communal table. These elements weren’t just practical; they added sophistication and uniqueness, accentuating the space’s high-quality nature.

Through careful design and collaboration with Milliken, PMG Group was able to deliver an inviting and space-efficient workspace that showcases the potential of the property, attracting attention and fulfilling the client’s commercial and aspirational vision.?

Photographed by John Downs