Through their strategic planning process, the Association of Independent Schools (AIS) had prioritised the redevelopment of Level 12 of their York St premises, which had a hybrid function as a workspace and professional development hub for members.
Of particular importance was that the professional learning delivered onsite would be consistent with the contemporary learning environments aspired to by member schools. AIS started to engage with Amicus via conversations with Head of Workplace Strategy Steve Collis, who had previously worked extensively with schools to connect pedagogy to learning environments in his Director role at 'Sydney Centre for Innovation in Learning' at Northern Beaches Christian School. As
AIS were introduced to the broader Amicus design and technology teams, their confidence grew that Amicus understood and could deliver on their vision: to create a space that was in equal parts functional, inspiring, and flexible. Infused with rich, seamless technology. The new environment needed to bring the physical and virtual together for staff, members, and an array of visitors.
The existing space was creating silos across divisions due to a lack collaboration and cross-functional team engagement. Employee productivity was also suffering due to insufficient meeting room occupancy, inadequate space utilisation and ineffective workplace technology.
Determined to break free from the traditional, we designed a flexible, multifunctional environment for multiple learning modes incorporating training facilities, meeting spaces, boardrooms and workspaces. The concept united a strong sense of community and sophistication with a front-of-house space that set the tone and experience to their members.
Working closely with their Marketing team, we developed a scheme to complement their visual identity, developing a vibrant colour palate to elevate the space as an extension of the AIS brand and culture.
The newly renovated space now features a modern, centralised reception hub with multifunctional meeting room spaces allowing flexibility for internal and external events. The large breakout area presents opportunity for educators and members to utilise the space for both collaboration and training, with adjacent open kitchen and butler’s kitchen offering flexibility. All operable walls have been glazed to allow an abundance of natural light to flow throughout and amplify the sense of space.
The exterior fabric has been reflected in the interior. The ‘space aged’ curved windows inspired the overall design, seen in many bespoke fittings and furniture items throughout the space. Our designers have translated the AIS corporate personality, consistent with their industry leading status.
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