CONNECTION TO COUNTRY

“It was no easy feat for designers, managers, or the builder, but the resulting space is fantastic. A true investment in our staff and client experience”.
– Dan Cunningham, Regional Director, Sydney & Western Sydney, WSP

The new Sydney workplace of WSP focuses on sustainability and connection to Country, meeting their company mission to create “healthy places where country, community, and people thrive” (WSP, 2024).

Guided by a circular economy approach, we worked with WSP to craft a workspace with the smallest possible environmental footprint. Rather than starting from scratch, the team set out to reuse and repurpose elements from the existing three floors, and to employ construction methodologies to minimise waste and landfill.

Beyond their commitment to environmental responsibility, WSP sought to establish a deep connection with Country. Bringing together First Nations wisdom and modern design principles, the concept of an ‘Enduring Pathway’ was employed throughout the workplace to reflect the journey of First Nations people, both past and present.

Built upon four guiding pillars; Endure, Connect, Embrace, and Intuitive, the design became a canvas for First Nations philosophy and Sydney’s cultural heritage to intertwine with the workspace. The result is a modern workplace enriched with stories of the land and it’s people.

A prime example is the new interconnecting staircase, embodying openness and collaboration. But beyond its structure, it serves as a storytelling medium for Dharawal artist Shane Youngberry, depicting the saltwater and freshwater marine life that sustained his ancestors. Throughout the 5,500sqm workplace, visual elements celebrate the power of fire, the regeneration of the bush, and the return of black cockatoos; symbolising renewal and resilience.

Working with WSP’s strong brand guidelines, our signage and graphics team took inspiration from the distinctive red angle of the logo to create a suite of graphics that communicate WSP’s identity, and complement the workplace design. We also showcased Youngberry’s animal portraits on the room plaques, alongside glazing graphics and in wayfinding elements.

We are proud to celebrate WSP’s achievement of 213,879kg of upfront carbon saved, 75,999kg of landfill avoided, and cost savings of $1,000,000 as a result of circular economy initiatives in the fitout.

This workplace transformation demonstrates the tangible results of a vision for healthy, sustainable spaces that are deeply connected to Country, and a collaborative project team.