Image Credit : Lisbeth Grosmann
Project Overview
MMG is a powerhouse in the global mining industry. With a steadfast commitment to “mining for progress,” the company found itself grappling with substantial growth while operating out of a workplace that had remained untouched for over 12 years.
Understanding the limitations this has on their staff and culture, the company sought a new space – a space that serves as a genuine reflection of their commitment to their people, innovation, and global connectivity.
MMG’s new workplace, designed and constructed by Cachet Group, ingeniously weaves natural earth tones reminiscent of the Australian outback, and mineral akin to the company’s field, to reveal a truly personalised space that authentically feels like an extension of the brand itself.
Project Commissioner
Project Creator
Team
Sara Wills - Lead Designer
Chelsea Jamieson - Interior Designer
Simon Potter - Client Relations Manager
Mitchell Higgins - Senior Project Manager
Adelaide Grounds - Project Coordinator
Luther Kwisthout - Site Manager
Project Brief
As a global company with over 150 staff and their operations rooted in the Australian Outback, MMG had a strong vision to create a workplace that not only resonates with their industry but also embodies their core values.
The brief was to create a renewed workplace that enables their people to embrace flexible ways of working. The workplace was not only home to the corporate staff but needed to house spaces that allowed site staff to attend for collaboration and training. Cachet’s response was to create a design that had an array of common spaces, meeting spaces, and collaboration zones enabling staff to utilize the space, for all work styles.
A standout feature of this project is the expansive arrival space that ingeniously introduces the brand and its industry through the use of color, cleverly exposed earth ceilings, and the striking display of pure minerals and rocks. Another key area is the spacious breakout area, providing MMG’s staff with a communal space to gather, eat, and celebrate together.
The MMG office boasts a dynamic and personalized design aimed at fostering flexibility for staff, featuring a variety of spaces strategically curated to inspire creativity and encourage new ways of working.
Project Innovation/Need
The core driver of the project extended beyond practical aims like creating flexible workspaces. Rather, it centered on authentically capturing the essence of the company and its industry—the rugged and unforgiving Australian outback—in an indoor setting that is both comfortable and inviting. This commitment was exemplified by:
- Incorporation of natural earth tones, featuring deep browns, rich reds, and vibrant oranges, and materials such as stone, rock, marble, and metal to evoke the rugged beauty of the Australian outback.
- Adherence to MMG worksite standards during construction, demonstrating a commitment to site health, safety, and delivery.
- Integration of Aboriginal and Australian art to infuse cultural depth, historical significance, and a sense of heritage into the workspace.
- Implementation of biophilic design elements that blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces, fostering a connection with nature within the office environment.
- Creation of versatile workspaces that encourage collaboration and creativity, inspired by the dynamic and vibrant spirit of the Australian outdoors.
- Introduction of innovative technologies and ergonomic solutions to enhance employee comfort and productivity, while staying true to the brand's ethos of embracing progress, modernity, and innovation.
By bringing the essence of the Australian landscape indoors in a comfortable and authentic manner, the workplace not only embodies MMG’s identity but also sets a new standard for creating inspiring and sustainable environments that resonate with both employees and clients alike.
Design Challenge
The project was spearheaded by the client's dedicated leadership team, striving to cultivate a collaborative workplace that inspires new ways of working. As such, this necessitated close collaboration and input from various stakeholders, including executives, IT, Workplace, Facilities, and HR.
Navigating the complexities of such a large stakeholder group demanded meticulous communication and coordination. By ensuring that every stakeholder's needs were not only acknowledged but also fully integrated into the project, we achieved a unified vision that resonated with all involved parties.
The volatile nature of market supply posed a significant challenge, with essential items often unavailable when required. However, through proactive and strategic sourcing and our strong network of project partners, Cachet navigated these hurdles without compromising the integrity of the overall design.
Additionally, the transition to a single-floor workspace prompted a re-evaluation of established workflows and collaboration methods. Recognizing that change can be challenging to adopt in larger organizations, Cachet strategically anchored the layouts and spaces in familiarity. This approach infused the project with a sense of continuity while embracing the innovation MMG needed in this new space.
Sustainability
Through adopting a holistic sustainability approach, Cachet, in collaboration with MMG, emphasized environmental responsibility and thoughtful design practices.
This involved incorporating existing furniture to minimize waste and extend the life of resources. Our focus was also to utilize sustainable, locally sourced materials, where possible, to reduce transportation emissions and support local economies.
To improve indoor air quality and reduce our carbon footprint, we introduced planting, HVAC upgrades, and the integration of low-pollutant materials throughout the space. Embracing the existing architecture and materials, including exposed concrete and ceiling tiles, allowed us to minimize environmental impact while retaining the base build character.
In line with our focus on wellness and energy efficiency, we maximized natural light in working areas, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and thereby promoting a healthier environment for MMG staff and their clients. Additionally, our choice of Interface carpet, designed by indigenous community groups, underscores our commitment to social responsibility and sustainable sourcing practices.
Through our holistic approach to sustainability, from material sourcing to energy conservation, Cachet has crafted a space that meets present needs while safeguarding the well-being of future generations and the planet.
Interior Design - Corporate
This award celebrates innovative and creative building interiors, with consideration given to space creation and planning, furnishings, finishes, aesthetic presentation and functionality. Consideration also given to space allocation, traffic flow, building services, lighting, fixtures, flooring, colours, furnishings and surface finishes.
More Details