201 Kent St

At 201 Kent Street, the idea of a workplace amenity is reimagined as something more considered, more experiential. Set within the historic fabric of the Grafton Bond building, this fit-out introduces a new layer of refinement, where contemporary design meets the memory of place. Designed by Gray Puksand and delivered by Shape with Form Corp, the project centres around the creation of an “Urban Oasis” — a space intended to offer pause, calm and quiet contrast to the intensity of the city beyond.

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Rather than approaching the end-of-trip area as purely functional, the design unfolds as a journey. A transition from the external environment into something softer, more tactile and grounded. The material palette plays a central role in this shift. Neutral tones and textured surfaces establish a sense of understated luxury, while the careful modulation of light and shadow introduces depth and movement throughout the space.

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Within this framework, the Apollo Timber Battens become a defining architectural element. Sized at 40 by 40 millimetres and set out at 120 millimetre centres, they introduce a consistent rhythm that guides the eye and reinforces the spatial language.

The use of Tasmanian Blackwood, finished with a clear matte lacquer, brings a richness that is both natural and restrained. Its tonal variation adds warmth without overwhelming the composition, allowing it to sit comfortably within the broader palette.

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The battens do more than line the space. They contribute to its atmosphere. Their presence softens transitions, frames movement and enhances the sense of enclosure, helping to create a setting that feels calm and composed. It is a subtle intervention, but one that carries significant impact in how the space is experienced.

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Spanning 105 square metres, the project demonstrates how even smaller, highly targeted environments can be elevated through careful material selection and detailing. The balance between old and new is handled with precision, allowing the historic character of the building to remain present while introducing a contemporary layer that feels both intentional and enduring.

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The result is a space that invites a shift in pace. A moment to pause, reset and move forward. Through collaboration and a shared commitment to design integrity, the project delivers more than an amenity. It creates a refined environment that quietly enhances the everyday.

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