Taking cues from Australia’s most iconic natural wonders, Microsoft created its new Sydney headquarters by reimagining the landscape of a modern workplace. Masterfully designed by the team at Group GSA, the bold and immersive interiors have been conceived to invite employees on a journey of discovery, and provide inspiration on a daily basis.
“We went to Interface because we knew that this project was extremely unique. The ability to customize all products was a contributing factor to the reason why we turned to them in the first place,” explained Jessica Margiotta, associate director at Group GSA.
Biophilia in Mind
“Natural landmarks that imbue awe and wonder — where natural phenomena take place — are referenced throughout the space,” said Margiotta. “These natural landscapes were conceptually linked with Microsoft’s brand values. A distinctive rock wall simulates Cradle Mountain, while Sydney’s famous Figure Eight Pools inspire the customer floor on Level 28. Microsoft values creativity within their workspace to ensure that their staff are constantly innovating and being challenged to think outside the box.”
With no white walls in sight, color played an essential role in creating such a unique and vibrant space. With each level representative of a different natural location, Margiotta and her team needed a flooring solution that would enable them to create a custom color palette to bring their intricate creative vision to life. “Each floor of the Microsoft fit out had a different theme, so we needed custom colored carpets to work in with the design of each level,” noted Margiotta.
Bespoke Design
Interface Design Studio’s expert talent made Interface the natural choice for this highly bespoke project. “We went to Interface because we knew that this project was extremely unique. The ability to customize all products was a contributing factor to the reason why we turned to them in the first place,” added Margiotta.
Group GSA utilized several Interface collections in the project, including Net Effect™, Composure™, and custom Human Nature™ carpet tiles as well as Textured Stones™ LVT. The firm selected Interface’s highly customized range of carpet tile because of the high degree of movement and texture in the product.
“The fact that they mimicked the natural landscape meant that the carpet tiles complemented our design vision as well as told a great story,” explained Margiotta. “The ability to customize the tiles was key to achieving a harmonious design. We used color with purpose and a high degree of contrasting and complementary colors to ensure visual excitement as well as ensuring that our design story was continued throughout the entire project. The range of yarns available to us with Interface meant that we could perfectly tone our floors to our walls.”
Trust, Experience & Quality
Interface’s remarkable customization capabilities, the extensive expertise of the Interface Design Studio, and the team’s ability to work with highly intricate flooring contractor plans complemented the products’ sustainability profile. “The Microsoft fit out achieved a 5 Star Green Star rating and so using Interface products meant that we would easily achieve the green ratings required,” shared Margiotta.
Even though the project took place in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, and there were logistical challenges to overcome, Margiotta believes that Interface went above and beyond to ensure the carpet tiles were delivered as planned. “We are extremely pleased with the final result. Everything about this project was out of the box, so having trusted and experienced suppliers supporting us with our product specifications while we pushed the boundaries of design was extremely important to us,” stated Margiotta. “Knowing that they would deliver quality outcomes gave us the confidence to infuse immense creativity into the project.”
