The “Centre of Business 2” (COB2) collocates a number of ACT Government directorates within a purpose-designed, contemporary premises in the centre of Canberra. COB2 is an integrated fitout that incorporates a high-quality end of trip facility, refurbished amenities and dedicated workspaces for 16 directorates across two, 7 storey buildings with basements. A consistent design language, inspired by the natural colours and textures of the Brindabella Ranges and a contemporary approach to signage and wayfinding strategies unify the fitouts despite very different approaches to spatial layouts to meet the accommodation requirements of each directorate.

With an emphasis on collaboration and flexibility, numerous multi-purpose spaces provide opportunities for users to shape their working environment to suit their activities.  The layout of functional areas improves opportunities for collaboration, spontaneous interaction and team cohesion by incorporating a range of work settings with fixed and movable furniture for either causal, formal or hybrid interactions. Battened screens assist in delineating and creating a sense of enclosure to breakouts and meeting booths while maintaining visibility across and between spaces. Three complementary colour palettes identify each level of the building, while the clever use of floor finishes, feature ceiling and oversized lighting elements define spaces within open plan areas.

Client

ACT Government

Location

Canberra City

Sector

Workplace

Year

2022

Status

Complete

Area

12,000m2

Cost

$26.0M

Builder

PBS Building

Photos

Richard Poulton