Riverside Centre Re-Design Puts Award In Crosshairs

KPDO has transformed the original 1980s modernist foyer of Harry Seidler’s Riverside Centre in Brisbane into a contemporary and sophisticated meeting space, in hopes of winning the Creative Re-use Award at the INSIDE World Festival of Interiors 2016.

Originally conceived by Seidler as a ‘Gesamtkunstwerk’, a total artwork, the building was considered Australia’s most prestigious and advanced office tower when it was built in 1986.

Located in the heart of Brisbane’s ‘Golden Triangle,’ KDPO said the architectural landmark expresses the characteristic principles of Bauhaus methodology and possesses a cultural legacy which marks it as one of the city’s most monumental commercial buildings.

Originally designed as a commercial ‘cathedral,’ the tower lobby boasts open circulation and astonishing sculptured ceilings designed by Italian Pier Luigi Nervi.

KPDO’s redeveloped design claims to have retained the purity of Seidler’s modernist vision by "expressing the building’s unique essence with a focus on colour, form and texture."

KPDO Director Kerry Phelan said all aspects of the foyer design were considered afresh.

“Whilst we remained as true as possible to the original aesthetic of the building, the way lobbies are used has changed since it was built in the 1980s.

"The refreshed design reflects that lobbies are now more like flight lounges with spaces for impromptu meetings, solo work, contemplation and coffee on the go.”

Reflecting KPDO’s strong design ethos and aesthetic, each material utilised in the design has been carefully selected for its particular characterisation and function. Cassina armchairs and custom made carpets designed by KPDO sit comfortably with the subdued palette of the light filled interior, while smooth white marble benches line the glass facade to offer riverside views.

Paired against contemporary custom-made furniture designed by KPDO, seated areas accentuate Bauhaus inspired design with the iconic pieces by the Campana brothers, Eames, Tom Dixon, Herman Miller, Knoll and Heinz Ulrich (Desede).

The Riverside Centre has been shortlisted for the Creative Re-use Award at the prestigious INSIDE World Festival of Interiors 2016.

Held annually, the global awards programme is judged by more than 20 distinguished designers and editors from around the world, with the winner to be announced on 18 November in Berlin, Germany.