Situated on level 7 of the Industry Lane Building in Richmond, Melbourne this dynamic workspace was designed by local studio, FIGR Architecture Studio for the construction company ICON to serve as their headquarters. Spanning 1,400 sqm, the office fitout is thoughtfully crafted to accommodate 80 permanent staff members and 40 hot desks for transitional workers, fostering flexibility and collaboration in a modern commercial environment.
Founded in 2017 by Adi Atic and Michael Artemenko, FIGR Architecture Studio is a multi-disciplinary practice dedicated to making architecture more valuable for people. With a commitment to excellence and efficiency, FIGR believes in the power of architecture to excite imagination and engage all senses. From homes to workplaces, their designs aim to foster a deeper emotional connection with the environment, the landscape, and those who experience these spaces which is on show at ICON HQ.
Designed with a campus-style layout, the office space supports diverse working typologies, including formal and informal meeting spaces, hot desks, zoom rooms, and co-working zones to encourage the continuous exchange of ideas and knowledge. Central to the design is an organisational core around which the workspace revolves, with internal streets that encourage movement and interaction, reflecting FIGR's commitment to engagement and collaboration.
To stimulate collaboration, ICON HQ is designed around a central hub that serves as the fixed point for the entire space. Generously sized corridors with flexible functionality create dynamic areas that promote interaction and movement through thoughtfully organised layouts and adaptable working typologies. The main laneway transitions into a spacious gallery for events, while the kitchen and breakout area provide a more domestic, inviting atmosphere.
Rounded edges define key elements, such as the organisational core and communal desks, creating visual focal points and enhancing the flow of circulation, balancing public and private zones while maintaining an open environment free of dead ends.
The interior of ICON HQ is rooted in functional aesthetics, human-centric principles, and sustainability. FIGR applied biophilic elements to enhance well-being, incorporating views of greenery within breakout spaces and using natural materials like timber and stone. Cream-white bricks lining the internal streets add texture, while an earthy palette inspired by Australian landscapes brings warmth and a connection to nature.
The greening of the office environment and natural materials soften indoor spaces, while sustainability is reinforced through eco-friendly choices, recyclability, and responsible resource management. Recycled acoustic paper spray serves as a humble yet effective solution for functional and decorative detailing within budget constraints. The careful integration of these principles and elements shape a work environment that is comfortable, healthy and inviting.
FIGR Architecture Studio's vision of creating spaces that excite the imagination and activate the senses is reflected in their design of ICON HQ as a dynamic and human-centric work environment. By blending sustainability with innovative composition, the office fosters a sense of community, well-being, and engagement among its occupants. With its thoughtful integration of natural materials, biophilic principles, and versatile spaces, this modern commercial environment balances functionality, aesthetics, and environmental responsibility.
If you are interested in learning more about FIGR Architecture Studio, you can head to their CO-architecture pro business profile. There, you can read about their studio, and take a look at other exciting projects like Ha Ha Haus.
PROJECT DETAILS
Architecture: FIGR Architecture Studio
Photographer: Tom Blachford
Services Engineer: Wrap Engineering
Project Manager: Monto Projects
Acoustic Engineer: Octave Acoustics
Building Surveyor: McKenzie Group
