London House, a 1986 Perth landmark, has undergone a transformative redesign by Woods Bagot, shifting its focus from a mere workplace to a destination. The project lead, Angela Kuroiwa, emphasizes the importance of respecting the building's heritage while integrating contemporary elements. The redesign aims to create a layered arrival experience, drawing inspiration from boutique hotels and private members' clubs, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere. This approach prioritizes comfort, connection, and a sense of experience, reflecting a shift in expectations of the workplace.
The design narrative revolves around 'modern nostalgia', where the preservation of original features, such as jarrah flooring and ornate ceiling mouldings, is just as crucial as new interventions. The lobby, for instance, features rich timber, stone, and aged bronze, along with layered fabrics and carefully selected furniture, creating a welcoming ambiance. Kuroiwa highlights the importance of fostering a sense of community and belonging, drawing on hospitality design principles to support a range of activities throughout the day.
A previously underutilized area has been transformed into an art gallery, extending the building's role beyond a mere workplace. This gallery is designed to invite people in, offering moments of pause, reflection, and connection. The gallery space is flexible, allowing for the display of existing artworks and the potential for future exhibitions, thus evolving over time.
The redesign of London House demonstrates that thoughtful adaptation can breathe new life into an established commercial landmark without compromising its identity. By valuing culture, connection, and craftsmanship, the project showcases how a building can be transformed into a destination that enriches the community and enhances the user experience.
