Maximus creates exceptional leadership experiences, systems and networks and they firmly believe that every leader has aspirations, but not every leader has the courage to make an impact beyond building their own career and that those who do things differently, achieve the unexpected.

Maximus approached Siren to design their new Melbourne office within a character-filled building in the heart of the CBD. Our aim was to design an inviting, team focused working environment that is reflective of Maximus’ aspiration to challenge the status quo of the business world.

A key design driver was to push the traditional separation of front of house and the behind the scenes of the office to create a highly collaborative environment for both staff and visitors. The focus on transparent, communal design in the spatial planning was supported by a soft, residential-look material palette. The relaxed feel and flexible design inspired social interaction amongst both guests and staff with the primary objective of facilitating learning and collaboration.

The office is located within Bank House on Bank Place in Melbourne CBD and we chose to celebrate the unique heritage features of the building. This included exposing the high ceilings which revealed the full height of the arched windows, flooding the space with light. A quirky mix of soft, residential-look materials including timber parquetry flooring, plush linen lounges, sheer curtains and greenery alongside raw concrete, exposed services and thick framing details creates a uniquely Melbourne flavour.

The focus of the design process was the exploration of blurring the traditional boundaries between visitors and the work that goes on behind the scenes. Visitors are welcomed into a large multi-purpose entry space, which includes a communal café under a leafy canopy. With learning at their core, the space also doubles as a training space. A large U-shaped banquette wraps around the space, which ensures greater speaker visibility and acoustic clarity from every position. The openness and flexibility of this communal space on entry encourages instant connections and opportunities for collaboration between Maximus staff and clients.

This human-centric approach to workplace design was further explored using plants coupled with maximising natural light throughout the space. Welcoming you as you enter the space is a large communal bench, custom designed to house a large indoor tree. The feature weeping fig plant as well as greenery throughout the space help to lift staff spirits and in doing so, promote wellbeing. The result is a more energised and engaged Maximus team.