The Hayesbery is a 20th century former factory in Sydney’s Rosebery suburb which has been transformed into a premier workspace. HDR delivered the engineering and commissioning management on this striking warehouse conversion. The historic building began life as a dye works, felt mill and hat factory, and has now become the flagship workspace for industrial property group Goodman. HDR joined the project team alongside interior designer, Woods Bagot.

The development is a masterclass in adaptive reuse projects. It comprises four neglected industrial buildings transformed and linked by a courtyard and internal walkway to create a desirable campus-style workplace. The space was design to prioritise diversity, health, safety and the well-being of Goodman’s people.

Many of the building services — mechanical, electrical, fire protection and hydraulics — which are typically contained inconspicuously behind wall and ceiling cavities in commercial buildings, are exposed in a nod to the development’s industrial origins. HDR considered form and function in equal measure, allowing these elements of the building design to become a feature of The Hayesbery in their own right.

Also showcased are an abundance of sustainable design initiatives engineered by HDR, including a rainwater storage tank, solar panels, and efficient lighting and HVAC controls. These features all helped to achieve a 5 Star Green Star sustainability rating for the building with a goal of being energy and water neutral.

With the project already underway when COVID-19 struck, the design quickly pivoted to incorporate specific health and wellness features that would help protect building users as well as support Goodman’s flexible working approach. This included updated desk considerations, sensor-operated bathroom doors and microbial copper handles on all meeting rooms.

Components of the building include:

• Lobby and concierge
• Internal and external meeting rooms and collaboration spaces
• Communal cafe
• Wellness centre, fully equipped gym and yoga space
• End of trip facilities including 10 executive shower suites
• Multi-faith room
• State-of-the-art luxurious bathrooms
• A pedestrian courtyard with outdoor dining, internal path and winter garden atrium
• On-site tech bar
• 16-person boardroom, including a full-service kitchen, that transforms into a casual multipurpose team and event space
• On-site car parking including two electric vehicle charging stations

The finished result is a tangible connection between the past and the future. Where milliners once worked, Goodman’s people now enjoy a modern workspace with striking industrial features that is both safe and sustainable.

Video Credit: Woods Bagot