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Adrian William Real Estate Office by Richards Stanisich
The modern workplace has become synonymous with gathering and respite – a sanctuary for the unique viewpoints of those who inhabit it. For next-gen real estate firm Adrian William, a new flagship bricks-and-mortar presence anchors the team within eclectic Newtown in Sydney.
The 1930s Art Deco exterior of a heritage-listed former Commonwealth Bank remains unassuming at first glance. Neatly symmetrical in elevation, one might be mistaken for thinking such formality continues throughout. However, as a hint to the playfulness of the interior, the revived King Street facade is embellished in a painterly Miami pink.
Bound by the original shell, spaces are neatly inserted around the orderly framework of the former reserve. Stately double doors usher guests into a generous arrivals zone. Flanked by a curtained lounge and terrazzo stairs, a freestanding reception suggests a threshold between public and staff, open to the ornate coffered ceilings and dropped pendants of the workspace beyond. Shared work zones are imbued with soft southern light and put an emphasis on wellbeing. Perched above the bustling streetscape, an eat-in kitchen encourages repose and communal connection.
An ode to the architecture of decades past, the interior reinvents itself as a melting pot of styles. “We were not slavish to historic references as the building had undergone numerous changes over the past 80 years,” explains Kirsten Stanisich, director of interior design and architecture practice Richards Stanisich. New insertions are expressed in powdery pinks, contrasted by the glossy blacks of the original.
A joyfully oversized checkered motif is prominent throughout, enhanced through repetition and layering. “To complement this, we sourced geometric linens to form loose-fit covers for the reception chairs, paired with chunky textural weaves and smooth vinyls,” says Stanisich. A low painted dado is another nod to the Art Deco period, instilling continuity from space to space.
Adrian William is staunchly supportive of environmental initiatives. “We’ve eliminated paper brochures and business cards, and we’re taking a sustainable approach by embracing innovative digital mediums,” says Phoenix Naman, the company’s head of marketing. The architecture echoes this sentiment, favouring low carbon products such as the chessboard linoleum floors and slate green laminate joinery. This social dialogue extends across works by local artists, curated by Art Pharmacy, to bestow the neighbourly spirit of the property firm.
The building lends itself to incidental encounters and collegiality. An extension of the spirited vitality of the area, this is a forward-looking, human-centric workplace for staff and visitors alike.
Deeply rooted in Sydney’s Inner West, the architecture is a manifesto of Adrian William’s community values, authenticity and dedication to its clientele. “We deal in real estate but we grow with people,” says Naman. “Our relationships with colleagues, clients and buyers are the most important contributor to our long-term growth. And we believe in everything the Inner West stands for – creativity, diversity and inclusivity.”
Architecture and interior design by Richards Stanisich. Build by Saha Projects. Artwork curation by Art Pharmacy.
