HDR’s new Level 41 office weaves together HDR’s architecture, engineering and transportation teams in a single space in Melbourne’s CBD, designed to encourage collaboration and deliver integrated solutions for clients.

Announcing the opening of its Melbourne office on Monday 11 August, HDR says its new workplace positions the firm for continued growth in Victoria’s expanding infrastructure and design sectors.

HDR’s varied spaces foster positive collaboration.

Collaboration of key importance

Featuring multiple collaboration zones, dedicated model-making areas, materials libraries and design review spaces, HDR’s new office fosters cross-disciplinary collaboration at every turn.

The design features floor-to-ceiling windows that offer all-encompassing views of Melbourne’s urban landscape. This connects HDR’s work directly to the urban environment and the community that it serves.

The expansive windows allow light to flood the office’s many spaces.

“Our strength lies in the genuine integration of architecture and engineering – not just in process, but in mindset,” HDR director of tech, media, telecom and data Kevin Miller says.

“In data centre design, where spatial and technical requirements are deeply interwoven, our interdisciplinary teams are empowered to co-create, iterate and deliver complex infrastructure with greater agility and impact. This investment reinforces our long-term commitment to the sector – and signals that we’re here to stay.”

HDR’s new office design hopes to encourage internal collaboration and external connection to the community it serves.

Reflecting HDR’s core values

Aligning with key findings from HDR’s Melbourne workplace strategy and core values, a central location connection to nature, accessibility to transport and intentional spaces that support engagement were prioritised in the office’s design and building selection.

HDR architecture managing principal Huai Lim says the new space mirrors the firm’s ambition to invoke “design that is collaborative, purposeful and deeply responsive”.

Sandy hues and warm lighting aim to create an inviting atmosphere for collaboration.

“By working side by side, we’re harnessing new creative potential and delivering projects that make a lasting impact, ultimately reinforcing our commitment to sustainable growth and confidence in our people, our projects and the Victorian market,” she says.

HDR’s leadership team.

With offices in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, HDR’s team has grown to 235 people across Australia.

Photography courtesy of HDR © 2025 Christine Francis.

Related: Gray Puksand designed its Melbourne studio with a ‘find and seek’ design narrative.