Hospitality specialist Technē Architecture + Interior Design has been appointed to undertake its first commercial tower project, further signalling the convergence of hospitality and office spaces.

Technē, the practice behind The Espy’s revitalisation, launched a workplace division within the practice last year. “Following on from the creation of our own new workplace, we are looking
forward to seeing our office designs come to life across an entire tower that will cater to an array of businesses,” says Technē director Nick Travers.

The 13 level office building located in Richmond, Melbourne, will feature a total net lettable area of over 17,000 square metres as well as bookable co-working spaces.

Along with the exterior architecture, Technē will design the interiors of each of the 13 levels as flexible, open-plan spaces allowing fully customisable workspace design.

The building will offer over 1,500 square metres of internal terraces and greenery, a flexible rooftop space and its own laneway with food and beverage destinations.

“We have focused on designing for the people that will be using the spaces and will include facilities that promote the positive work-life culture that we have employed in our own studio’s design,” says Travers.

Technē has worked on a number of projects in the Richmond area and is keen to reflect the area’s personality in the design of the office tower.

“The vibrancy of Richmond has already been highlighted through our work in the hospitality sector and we are now looking forward to translating this into an outstanding office building for the area.

“We have kept the Richmond location alive in our design and will integrate the commercial spaces with the new laneway as well as the broader streetscape.

“One way we will do this is via exposed concrete ceilings and a general, honest and articulated expression of construction. Despite being part of a modern building, these will offer that boutique warehouse vibe so occupants can feel connected to the existing urban fabric,” says Travers.