Project Overview

Russell Kennedy’s new Melbourne workplace was delivered as a high-end, sustainability-led fitout spanning four levels of the 500 Bourke Street commercial tower, accommodating more than 350 staff. The project sought to create a contemporary workplace that reflects the firm’s values, supports staff wellbeing, and demonstrates leadership in sustainable workplace design.

The four levels are visually and physically connected by a feature internal stair, encouraging movement, visibility and informal interaction across teams. A deliberately open, non-hierarchical workstation layout improves access to daylight and views, promoting equity and transparency across the workplace.

Rewild Agency supported the project from concept to completion to achieve a 5 Star Green Star Interiors v1.3 rating.

Key Services Provided

• Green Star Accredited Professional (GSAP)

Key initiatives to achieve the 5 Star rating

• Feature staircase for fitness and light
  The feature staircase linking Levels 16 to 19 enhances connectivity and encourages circulation for both the team and clients alike.

• Energy efficiency and operational performance
  Lighting and HVAC systems were carefully optimised and integrated with the base-building services. Demand-control sensors and energy monitoring were incorporated to reduce operational energy use while maintaining occupant comfort.

• Circular design and embodied carbon reduction
  A comprehensive furniture and joinery audit was undertaken to identify opportunities for reuse and refurbishment. Retaining and upgrading existing furniture significantly reduced embodied carbon and material waste associated with the fitout.

• Responsible material selection
  The fitout prioritised FSC-certified timber, low-VOC paints and adhesives, and robust natural materials selected for durability and long-term lifecycle performance, supporting both environmental outcomes and indoor air quality.

• High-quality indoor environmental quality
  The workplace achieves strong daylight penetration and access to external views, complemented by acoustic zoning and glare control strategies to improve comfort, focus and overall occupant experience.

• Waste management and ethical procurement
  Construction processes achieved a minimum 80% diversion of construction waste from landfill. Contractor procurement policies also embedded ESG principles, aligning delivery with Russell Kennedy’s broader corporate responsibility objectives.

Rewild’s Impact

• GSAP Advice to achieve 5-Star Green Star Interiors v1.3 - certified rating.

Project timeframe

• July 2023 - May 2025