Sydney Open Day 2019: Arup

Global design and engineering practice Arup opens its new offices to Sydney Open for the second year in a row, this time inviting the public in for a rare glimpse at the specialty spaces inspiring them to redefine what is possible in the built environment. The offices are located in the CBD heritage pocket of Barrack Place, in one of Sydney’s few commercial buildings to open this year.

The fit-out by HASSELL focuses on design innovation and wellbeing, and includes individual and group studios, an experimental space, an outdoor terrace, a yoga and meditation room, ergonomic furniture and resort-style end-of-trip facilities. Acoustics, natural light, access to views and indoor air quality have all been rigorously resolved in this workplace. A low-energy underfloor ventilation system – unique to commercial buildings – provides the highest indoor air quality with no pollutants, a process aided by the abundance of indoor plants. The office demonstrates world leadership in sustainable design and received a 6 Star Green Star Interiors v1.1 Design Review Certified rating.

Cutting through the floor plates is a dramatic central void and an internal staircase that links the studio levels. Visitors enter via the Business Lounge and can tour the Arup Gallery, where exhibitions are curated around issues aligning with Arup’s mission to ‘shape a better world’. Arup is a partner and strategic adviser to the C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group, of which Sydney is a member.