Icon HQ by FIGR

FIGR has transformed Icon’s Richmond headquarters, crafting a flexible and collaborative 1,400-square-metre office designed to foster movement, interaction and wellbeing through intentional design choices.

The heart of the office is the organisational core, from which internal pathways and generous corridors extend to different working zones. This strategic layout ensures a sense of openness, encouraging informal meetings and spontaneous interactions between staff. Accommodating 80 permanent staff and 40 hot desks for transitional workers, the building supports various working typologies, from flexible workstations to breakout spaces and formal meeting rooms. Icons’s teams move fluidly between these zones, with the layout allowing for easy collaboration or independent work as required.

The heart of the office is the organisational core, from which internal pathways and generous corridors extend to different working zones.

Biophilic principles were central to FIGR’s approach, incorporating natural materials such as blackbutt timber, stone and cream-white bricks to create a textured, earthy palette. The design draws inspiration from the Australian landscape, maximising views of greenery and natural light to enhance the workspace’s sense of wellbeing. Shifts in tonal qualities subtly delineate different working areas, creating a visual flow that helps to define the purpose of each zone. By using recycled materials like acoustic paper spray and retaining original building elements such as ceiling tiles, FIGR’s design demonstrates a clear commitment to sustainability without compromising on the outcome.

In key areas like the kitchen and breakout zones, FIGR introduces a domestic atmosphere, blending soft edges and organic forms to create spaces where staff can gather and connect. The large island bench in the breakout area serves as a social hub, providing a welcoming spot for informal lunches or after-work drinks. These multi-functional areas are key to supporting a wide range of activities, from focused work to collaborative team sessions, fostering an important sense of community within the office.

The design draws inspiration from the Australian landscape, maximising views of greenery and natural light to enhance the workspace’s sense of wellbeing.

FIGR has placed significant importance on creating a harmonious transition between public and private zones, allowing staff to shift seamlessly between collaborative and focused work environments. The flexible layout is designed to adapt effortlessly to changes in occupancy, ensuring that the office remains vibrant and functional even during quieter periods. Wide internal pathways activate the space, encouraging fluid movement and spontaneous interactions while eliminating dead ends that can hinder circulation.

By focusing on adaptability, sustainability and a human-centric design, FIGR has created a workspace that balances productivity with comfort. Icon HQ demonstrates how thoughtful office design can respond to the evolving needs of a modern workforce, offering an environment that supports creativity, wellbeing and a strong sense of community.

Architecture, interior design and landscape design by FIGR. Build by Icon.