ellivo (Projects (archive))

The vision for this subtropical commercial development is to create a distinctive and confident building form that responds to its local context while contributing positively to the evolving urban character of Upper Mount Gravatt. The architectural expression is anchored by a finely detailed, sculptural podium that grounds the building at street level and establishes a strong sense of place. Inspired by the subtropical climate, the design prioritises shade, daylight, ventilation and landscape integration to create comfortable and engaging environments for occupants and visitors alike. The upper levels are articulated to soften the building’s scale, while the podium forms a robust and human-scaled interface with the public realm.

At street level, activated retail tenancies and landscaped spaces address both frontages, fostering pedestrian engagement and encouraging activity throughout the day. These spaces are carefully curated to enhance the streetscape and contribute to a vibrant, walkable environment. The rhythmic façade responds to the surrounding context through modulation, texture and planting, creating a dynamic architectural presence that shifts with light and movement.

This contemporary seniors’ rental living development is situated within the well-connected and established neighbourhood of Southport, offering residents direct access to public transport, health services, retail amenity and open space. The architectural response creates a welcoming vertical community expressed through a considered building form that balances articulated façades, generous landscaping and a relaxed subtropical character.

Apartments have been purposefully designed to meet the needs of seniors, prioritising comfort, accessibility, natural light and ventilation. Passive design principles, generous private balconies, and clear separation between private and shared spaces combine to create environments that are both functional and enjoyable, while ensuring privacy, safety and long-term ease of living. Communal spaces at both ground level and rooftop are central to the life of the building, providing residents with a range of opportunities to connect, socialise and participate in everyday activities. These spaces are complemented by quieter retreat areas that allow residents to enjoy moments of reflection within landscaped surroundings that extend the domestic experience beyond the individual apartment.

As a develop, own and operate model, the design places strong emphasis on durability, life-cycle performance and adaptability over time. High-quality, low-maintenance materials, robust detailing and timeless architectural principles underpin an outcome that supports long-term operational efficiency while delivering enduring value, amenity and a strong sense of place for residents.

Inspired by the elegance of the Glasswing butterfly, the design mirrors the graceful sweep of its wings, a form that feels light, fluid, and alive. Lush subtropical greenery is thoughtfully woven throughout, transforming the building into a sanctuary in the heart of the city. 10 Morrow Street is an urban oasis that blends short term accommodation with residential living. A destination for rest, relaxation, and renewal.

The ultimate in beachfront living, Pipis at Bilinga is an exclusive collection of 17 half floor residences and two double story penthouses with uninterrupted coastal views.

Drawing inspiration from the sculptured dunes that frame the idyllic coastal setting, Pipis is series of horizontally stacked forms, broken up by green breaks and floor to ceiling glazing, creating articulated and light dappled internal spaces. The masterfully designed interiors create light filled liveable spaces that capture cooling ocean breezes. Spacious and functional, each apartment features high quality fixtures, state of the art appliances and stone benchtops throughout.

A refined coastal palette of understated yet elegant finishes highlight bespoke details and embodies the timeless essence of beachfront luxury.

Pipis delivers high-end in-house lifestyle amenities; including a 15m heated lap pool and sun lounge deck, fully equipped gymnasium and outdoor rain shower with dog wash to rinse off the sand. Offering direct back entry access to the beach and ocean bike pathway, residents can enjoy the most the Gold Coast has to offer.

Monterey is nestled on one of the last remaining beachfront sites in Kirra Beach and was a rare opportunity to create something truly iconic.  With approximately 50m of sweeping north-facing beach frontage and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean & Gold Coast coastline – there is no comparison.

With a tonal, textural palette of finishes, married with lush tropical landscaping, we wanted to blur the line between inside and out. We kept the hardscape natural, earthy, light, and crisp to let the colours of the landscape really pop. Strong horizontal banding, reminiscent of the layers of sand waves from tidal movement, exaggerate the curved edges to open each residence to the stunning views.

The result is 35 residences over 14 levels of smooth, fluid design aesthetic, inspired by the stunning natural landscapes that surround.

The Wellington Collection are a boutique collection of thoughtfully considered residences with uninterrupted views across the Manly Marina and Moreton Bay.

Spanning across three levels, these spacious homes offer generous scale and flexibility for modern living. Throughout every step of the project, careful consideration was given to balancing views towards the harbour, taking advantage of natural light and utilising its elevated position. Drawing from the natural rhythms of coastal life, the design features soft curves, layered textures, and materiality inspired by sea, sand, and sky.

Each residence is oriented to capture light, breeze, and sweeping views, with sculpted forms and lush subtropical landscaping enhancing the connection to its context. From the central oculus atrium to the shared lounge and pool, The Wellington Collection are a refined expression of bayside living, where architecture meets atmosphere, and every detail reflects its coastal setting.

The latest addition to Woody Point’s shoreline. Inspired by the natural curves of the coastline, the architecture embraces soft, flowing forms, with curved balconies and batten screens that echo the rhythm of the waves. Inside, a refined palette yet relaxed palette seamlessly connects to the coastal surrounds. Thoughtfully designed interiors prioritise functionality without compromising on luxury, offering spacious kitchens, abundant storage, and warm finishes.

Introducing Corner House Residences, delivered in collaboration with De Martini Fletcher. Featuring 88 residential apartments located in a dynamic lifestyle precinct, Corner House offers unrivalled convenience, just a stone throw away from the best Brisbane has on offer. The design is deeply connected to the area’s vernacular, drawing inspiration from its rich history as a commercial hub.

The building responds to both context and climate, integrating wrap-around balconies, passive design strategies, and a refined material palette that balances robustness with warmth. Expansive apartment layouts prioritise spatial quality, natural light, and ventilation, with flexible configurations that enhance liveability.

At street level, the ground plane is an extension of the urban surrounds, fostering activation and engagement with the public realm. Above, a rooftop retreat delivers resort-level amenities, seamlessly woven into a landscape that frames panoramic city views. Corner House is both a reflection of its place and an evolution of apartment living in Brisbane’s inner south.

Situated in the sought-after Kangaroo Point peninsula, 130 Lambert offers an exclusive collection of 2 and 3 bedroom residences where luxury and sophistication seamlessly meet. Architecturally the design captures modern elegance with sleek lines, while full-height glazing floods each residence with natural light. The thoughtfully curated finishes blend timeless style with contemporary and executive living. Rooftop amenities, including an infinity pool, fitness studio, and private garden, provide residents with resort-like comfort while enjoying expansive views of the ‘river-city’ skyline. This desirable inner city address represents elevated urban living at its finest, with construction set to commence in early 2025.

The new AFL Clubhouse brings together the community in the context of the new Mirvac development, Everleigh. Providing for teams, trainers and visitors, the design sleeves the curve of the sports field and takes in the greenery and open spaces.

Within the club there are boardrooms and operational offices, ample change rooms, showrooms and amenities are also provided for teams, trainers and the community. A well equipped cafe and canteen services the community day by day and supports the teams on games days.

Working alongside Council and Mirvac, we have designed a facility which balances the brief and the practicalities required for the club to stand the test of time.

This state-of-the-art venue, built by Bedford Built, features an MCG-sized oval and is equipped to host major sporting events such as grand finals and representative fixtures.

The clubhouse is adorned by a striking sculptural roof for shading, ample natural light through spherical apertures, and a neutral, timeless material palette. A true community landmark, it offers exceptional views and robust design that will stand the test of time.

Working alongside Traders in Purple to deliver another iconic address in the Moreton Bay Region, Tydal emerges as a key landmark in the revitalization of this charming village. Proudly elevated on the highest point of the Woody Point Peninsula, Tydal promises a lifestyle that embraces the ocean and vast panoramic coastal views.

Tydal delivers uncompromising luxury with a collection of beautifully crafted 2 and 3 bedroom apartments, many with breathtaking water views. The architectural language is derived from the naturally occurring forms of the surrounding bays articulated by feature vertical battens. The finishes palette is a collection of soft tones and natural materials, creating a humble yet elegant space.

Interior spaces are well considered so residents can effortlessly transition from the stylish interiors to the expansive balconies that frame calming water views towards Moreton Bay. Resort like amenities offer poolside lounging, alfresco dining around the BBQ, even a dog wash for pooches after a morning stroll along the beach.

Visuals by Near Visual

Located within the central CBD area, this existing commercial building was previously renovated with foam cladding presenting a fire safety risk to its occupants. Rather than simply replacing new for old, there was an opportunity to breathe new life and personality into the existing 1950’s building. With the desire to minimise the impact on the internal fit-outs, retain as much of the existing glazing as possible and working within the limits of the structural load capabilities, a highly unique outcome was required.

The new transformation comprises a matrix of metal cladding panels and extrusions to create a sleek, industrial tectonic to work harmoniously with the existing gridded facade composition. To compliment the tower facade, finer metalwork elements, exposed brickwork and expressive lighting bring a finer grain detail and pedestrian scale to the lower levels.

As part of the new upgrades, the facade design also brings an improvement to the thermal performance of the building, reducing its on-going running costs. When complete, the upgraded building will provide improved long-term investment, create an attractive workspace to its tenants, and continue to act as a citizen of the city for decades to come.

Our task to provide equitable access and better facilities for members and guests is a long and winding road. Fundamentally the original 80’s Architecture stands strong and creating new links through the building, and around the building, is creating some great outcomes. The refurbishment hinges on the greenspace of the greens and the extensive trees and heritage of these, which surround the club.

The sport itself drives us to integrate the activity into the building, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor. The renovation includes extensive new changerooms for male, female, unisex and PWD, new foyer, lift, business lounge and admin spaces. A new extension includes golf retail and expands the golf operations offerings.

Photography by Brock Beazley

Located along Swann Road on a dual-frontage site, Florian Residences makes the most of its steep terrain, creating 16 luxurious apartments and a generous communal rooftop area.

The building has a timeless, robust expression of feature brick and articulated glazing which is softened with lush sub-tropical landscaping and the gentle curves of deep balcony recesses. Fine-grain operable screening elements and balustrades bring a human scale articulation to the design and give the residents control of their preferred levels of privacy, street interaction, and natural cooling.

Visuals: Nord Studio

Working closely with Daisho, the brief called for a highly polished and refined experience.

The Retail Precinct on the ground and podium levels of 180 Brisbane and 192 Central caters for both local staff and commuters passing through from Brisbane’s Central Station to the CBD.

With a wide variety of spaces for indoor and outdoor meetings, lunches or after-work gatherings, the brief called for a series of highly polished and curated experiences.

A space for a psychiatrist requires careful consideration of the interaction between professionals, their clients and their family. This suite highlights how professional care delivered in a thoughtful environment brings warmth and comfort to the experience.

Designed to inspire through glimpses to Mt Coot-tha and artwork by local indigenous artists, the visitors are welcomed into an interesting and private suite which is considerate of their privacy and sensitivity.

Visitors are welcomed to a professional space which has layers of softness through comfort, texture and materials. Given the Suite is small, the coffee area and water point are opened up to clients to encourage moving around the space and finding a place where visitors feel comfortable.

Photography by Cieran Murphy

Within the leafy surrounds of Taringa sits the new home for Generations Medical, consulting doctors and specialist suites with a small theatre.

The rise of medium sized facilities such as these away from hospital precincts encourages a different approach to the design. As in this case, the owners were very passionate about bringing energy from nature into their fitout. They were seeking a calm and professional appearance.

The design has elements of warmth and detail often found in a home, while remaining practical and comfortable. The palette reinforces the custom timber slab which wraps the reception and is very fresh and clean throughout.

There is a serenity within which is reinforced by the staff and their approach to patient care.

Photography by Arrow Media Collective

Working alongside the fitout contractor Apollo, and Q Coals leadership team, we set out to deliver a fresh environment for the growing QCoal team, over two floors. Drawing inspiration from the raw materials of mining, the palette was curated to include earthy and masculine tones to result in a space that is warm and inviting for both visitors and staff. Culturally the new space welcomes visitors from many nations, and encourages the Q Coal team to meet and collaborate every day. The empahsis was on providing suitable work areas which draw staff together.

The design was shaped by the client’s values and needs with a lot of importance on the space reflecting the permanence of the Queensland company. Central to the space planning was to include a large town hall where the staff can gather for team meetings and events. The outcome is uniquely Q Coal that will carry the client into the next decade.

Photography by Cieran Murphy

A fitout for this new tech company in Brisbane’s highly sought after Annex Building on Creek Street was the perfect fit. Digital Infratech are all about supporting a diverse group of local businesses across multiple industries, including IT, Data, Health, Manufacturing, Demographics and  Property. Their new space needed to support this diversity in the groups who call it home. Sleek finishes, multiple meeting and breakout spaces, as well as separated working spaces were all worked through with the client and key stakeholders to achieve their goal.

The functionality of the various spaces, the different user groups and their hours of operation, all helped shape the design. Generous break-out spaces were placed throughout, giving staff the opportunity for a comfortable place to rest whenever they may be working. Our client also managed the construction of the project, and has resulted in an extremely high-quality finish, which they are proud to call home.

The process of planning and moving to our new home at 293 Queen Street, in the heritage-listed Custom Credit House, gave us a chance to pause, reflect and explore what was important to all the people who use our spaces – clients, visitors, staff members and friends alike.

In true Ellivo spirit, we knew that our space needed to have plenty of character and needed to support various activities from focused work to small and large meetings, as well as casual gatherings and more formal celebrations. The building itself informed the rhythm of the layout – breaking up different spaces, while still allowing them to be connected.

Moving to a new space allowed us to consider the changing office environment – we realised a need to create a flexible space which allows multiple people to work in different modes, and within separate areas. We identified the needs of the various users of our studio and tailored spaces to suit each of these. We created quieter meeting spaces away from work zones to allow for individual and small-group work, quiet phone seats, scrum areas for larger project team meetings and a long library and layout space along the central circulation spine – to inspire and foster team interaction. We also made sure that industry gatherings could be supported through the latest technology and design.

The Garden Bar is a great gathering space for us, as we embrace coming together again with each other and our community. We are excited to share our studio and watch as it grows over the coming years.

In years gone by families would take an outing to the airport in their Sunday best to see off a traveller, visit the viewing platform and see the swans swimming on the ponds at the airport. The viewing deck will now be home to Aspire Perth and offer their travellers an extension of their Western Australian experience.

The lounge focuses on the views to the tarmac with a variety of work and leisure spaces. Ambience and wellness flows through from the furnishings to the local food & beverage offerings. Indigenous artwork, local photography and a palette inspired by the landscape flows through the spaces that cater for all types of travellers.

Connectivity and flexibility is considered at all points throughout the lounge with the ultimate focus on ensuring the lounge is robust and adaptable to continue the Aspire reputation.

The coastal landscape of Coolum is characterised by eroded edges, where the ocean and tides have cut and formed the rocky landscape. The First Bay development, consisting of two interlinked buildings, evokes qualities of this varied landscape in its architecture - with solid concrete forms and soft edges referencing the rocky beach front. The material palette further grounds the building within the sloping context – using neutral-coloured stone and smooth concrete that will age gracefully and patina over time.

Consisting of 38 two- and three-bedroom units, split across two buildings, First Bay makes the most of coastal living. The buildings were designed as a curated string of experiences; each step in the journey fulfilling a need created by the location. There are showers and surfboard stores at the entry from David Low Way; and materials were selected to be hardwearing and tactile while lighting is minimal and thoughtfully-placed.

Carefully-planned internal spaces allow for cross ventilation and natural light, and prioritise the living spaces towards the breathtaking views in the East. The units address the demands and desires of an owner-occupier market, with generous living and storage spaces, and hardwearing yet luxurious-feeling material choices.

The Quarter at Wodonga integrates a mix of commercial, retail, dining and exclusive residential living units. A place to work, the Quarter offers light-filled contemporary office spaces in a high visibility, premium location right in the heart of town. As place to live, life at the Quarter embraces spacious indoor and outdoor living that brings people together combined with a range of uses and facilities that takes advantage of the location and the broader community.

A collection of 56 north facing apartments that have been designed to take advantage of the northern aspect and lush landscaping and communal facilities.  Spacious, light filled apartments are coupled with careful attention to views and outdoor spaces that combine to provide a unique and diverse living experience.

7 Dudley Street has an elegant timelessness with inherent resilience in both its finishes and form – inviting the outside in and talking to its neighbours; while also standing up to the ravages of time to create a long-lasting, truly sustainable building.

Over the building’s robust base-form is a lush layer of sub-tropical planting and a permeable layer of screens, balconies, and terraces. These elements extend into the building interior through expansive courtyards which enhance the liveability of the internal spaces, as well as adding visual interest and passive surveillance to the streetscape and the neighbouring park.

The planting is a mix of native flora and edible planting – increasing the biodiversity of the area, adding to the food security of native fauna, and mediating with the great Brisbane river along the delicate riparian zone. KIOME has been carefully considered to create the best of sub-tropical living for residents, while connecting with the community and natural environment in a meaningful way.

Located in the highly sought after area of Kangaroo Point, the development sets out to showcase the heritage significance of the existing residence, Thornclyffe.  The tower form curves around the house, and makes use of large screen elements to create a backdrop to the heritage setting. The screens help to produce an aesthetic quality that blurs the line between background and foreground, inspired by the Bokeh photography style.

The development comprises of the existing heritage house and 20 luxury apartments, including two sub penthouses and two penthouse apartments that feature spacious, private rooftop gardens. The location and design of the tower captures a range of outlooks, from the Brisbane CBD, to stretches of the Brisbane River.  Each apartment maximises its unique view with open-plan layouts and generous glazing.

The fluid form and curved edges of the façade emulate a “wing like” aesthetic that is balanced by a neutral palate of materials that allows the building form to speak for itself. This refined aesthetic is further enhanced through careful consideration of screening elements, balustrades and edge details. The balustrade design has been carefully considered to provide privacy to the balconies where required and opens-up to the expansive city, river and neighbourhood view at the upper levels. Residents also enjoy common facilities including resort style pool with views to the city skyline, and covered BBQ, dining and lounge areas.

The fluid form of the external has been thoughtfully carried into the apartments. The kitchen adopts a simplistic yet sophisticated palette, with soft greys, natural stones and black contrasts. Subtle references to the curves of the building have been embraced in the kitchens with a curved feature end to the island benches, ensuring fluid movement in and around the space. Both textural and contrasting elements emphasise the palette, creating a high end and timeless feel. Where possible, the interiors have been designed with Indirect and concealed lighting, which will help create a relaxed and beautiful home.

Renders by Binyan Studios Photography by Cam Murchison & Hutchinson Builders

Sitting calmly within the bustling and diverse West Village, the new home for the professionals that are Skin Partners is a true reflection on their approach to their profession. The brief was not a typical allied health brief and started with some beautiful imagery of modern homes. With the client’s keen eye for aesthetics, the fitout was designed around the journey of the patients and of the professionals that use the spaces and brings together the sense of calm and the practicality of the spaces.

The tenancy is bathed in natural light by day and looks through an interesting façade and beyond to gardens and Boundary Street. With limited space and evergrowing needs balancing aesthetics and space, planning became a very detailed exercise with every millimetre utilised. We also carefully considered the privacy of patients balanced with sheer curtains to allow the light and connection to the gardens to shine.

Photography by Cieran Murphy

Located in Banyo, the Summerlin residences are a collection of homes, carefully designed to provide ultimate living space. We partnered with Dennis Family Corporation to provide a range of well-considered town homes designed to appeal to the local community. The poolside terrace homes include 2 and 3 bedroom townhouses, with fully fenced gardens and raised external balconies that overlook an expanse of communal area.

Located in the Valley Heart Precinct, 465 St Paul’s Terrace carefully curates a mix of uses, spaces and materials to create a strong and vibrant build-to-rent community.

The building’s façade is simple in its expression and materiality – responding to its urban surrounds with a solid, recycled red-brick façade that is punched through with large openings. This brick screen shields residents from the harshness of the two street frontages; while providing an assertive architecture to the streetscape. Each material, and its interaction with the site boundary is carefully considered to encourage activation; accommodating the functional requirements for vehicle access and building services without allowing them to dominate. The ground level landscaping works to soften and complement the built form by using various tones, textures and heights.

With only 37 one- and two-bedroom apartments, the development follows a build-to-rent delivery-model that places a high importance on lifecycle costs, longevity of materials and overall good design outcomes.

Photographed by Cieran Muprhy

The design challenge – to create a new home for the B+W team of engineers – called us to explore and deliver on their expectations while making big changes to their way of working. Leading the way, the directors needed us to create a space for collaboration, transparency and open discussion.

In essence the spaces are all about conversation – breaking down all barriers to encourage new connections. The fabric of the building (structurally designed decades ago by the B+W team) has been opened up to act as the conversation starter with new clients. The columns have been revealed, the concrete slab exposed and the original structural soffit was made into a design feature. The fitout exposes the way the building was put together; acting as a reference to the company’s work, as well as adding visual interest to the spaces.

The space also needed to act as a home – for the business, for colleagues to get together, for clients, business connections and so on. The expressed industrial finishes of concrete, glass and steel have been balanced with luxurious soft furnishings and curtains to create a calm and welcoming environment. As a consequence, adjacent collaboration spaces are abuzz with meetings, coffees and lunches. As there was little built form to contend with, the large open breakout spaces have also allowed for staff gatherings to continue whilst still respecting social distancing requirements.

Watch as Tanya talks about our design journey with B+W

Photography by Mindi Cooke

Working alongside the Miele Architectural team in Germany, both the Perth and Adelaide Experience Centres were major refurbishment projects of existing fitouts. The joinery and finishes palette were designed to highlight the appliances, and lighting was carefully considered to enhance the visitors’ experience.

The spaces were designed to be free-flowing and flexible – allowing shoppers to see the different areas from various vantage points. A demonstration area is central to the design; where users have the opportunity to see the appliances in action for the creation of a full three-course dining experience.

Both spaces were pared back and carefully considered to organise how the display may change over time. Finishes were detailed to allow easy transition to new displays; with a focus on reducing landfill and disruption to the staff and users.

Photographed by David Sievers Photography

Located between two streets - Simpsons Road and Rosewood Street, Holm makes the most of the steep site to provide amenable, self-contained residences with views down into the valley.

The townhouses vary between 3 and 4 bedrooms, and all have North-facing living spaces and balconies to take advantage of the site’s favourable aspect. The Simpsons Rd frontage comprises six townhouses; however, they present as three residential-scale homes complete with face brick fencing, articulated awnings and screens. In contrast, the townhouses fronting Rosewood Street follow a similar character to other residences in the street – recessed into to the side of the hill, they have front entries at the Rosewood St Level, and access their backyards from the first level above ground.

Photography by Cam Murchison

Renders by Binyan Studios

One of the most challenging briefs is to design for an ever-changing workforce, which will peak and decline in varying stages over the term of the lease. That was exactly what ARTC requested as Inland Rail are delivering thirteen rail projects across Australia over the next seven years. It was very rewarding to work with them and watch their staff move from a cramped and unworkable space to a custom-designed, 95% agile environment with a variety of flexible working environments.

Working within a Green star building, and with high servicing and density requirements, the layout needed to support collaborative, agile working. This was achieved by designing various different types of workspaces such as phone booths, quiet rooms and casual chat areas – as well as more conventional office desk areas including standing areas.

We were involved heavily with the team managers during the design phase, which has helped to enable a successful transition to the new space, and has encouraged new connections to form naturally within teams since the project’s completion. The company values are deeply embedded within the space and their sense of community informed the layout and the new way of working. The palettes throughout reference the many remote communities, the earth that they touch and the robust materials of rail within a Queensland context.

Photography by Mindi Cooke Photography

The Ronald McDonald House charity provides a home away from home for seriously ill children and their families. In South Brisbane they have built a 10-storey complex adjacent the Mater Children’s Hospital, which is slowly being fitted out floor by floor as they get funding. Ellivo was commissioned to design the fitout for Level 9, which was destined to become a home for the families that need to stay longer.

The project consists of nine accommodation rooms – some with interconnecting doors to house larger families – as well as communal kitchen facilities and a dining area, a large fenced play area, and a private function room which can be booked for family functions.

The project received funding from various charities and fundraising efforts – among them, the annual Chain Reaction Challenge Foundation bike ride contributed a large amount. Two of the riders and fundraisers for this were Ellivians Mason and Jen, who rode 1000 km from Sydney to Brisbane in 2017.

Photographed by Mindi Cooke

The new Caesarstone showroom sits next to the state-of-the-art warehouse facility in Yatala; and is designed for prospective clients to appreciate the look and feel of the Caesarstone product. With the changing light of day, and during the night, the space functions as a retail and event space. The focus is always on the product, and the quality of the light is all-important for showing the true colours and textures of the stone. Users can touch and feel large pieces of stone, collect samples and view slabs in the warehouse. The space also utilises touch-screen technology to allow clients to visualise the stone in their own projects.

The project was designed to be as flexible as possible, to enable Caesarstone to change their stone panels whenever they wanted to showcase new products. For this reason, the palette is crisp and simple – making the stone the hero of the spaces. The various Caesarstone finishes flow through into boardrooms, amenities & staff areas to reinforce the pride that the Caesarstone team have for their brand.

Photos by Rix Ryan Photography

The Whistle Dixie sits on the ground floor of Aurizon’s sleek 15-storey office building in the Fortitude Valley. In a playful nod to the building’s main occupant – Australia’s largest rail freight operator – we used trains as our departure point for inspiration. The main counter represents derailed carriages with train tracks hung above, a light box portraying the ‘X’ train stop sign is seen in the front window, and the floors feature recycled timber sleepers that have been recessed into the concrete. These touches are mixed with luxurious, high-quality finishes that help to create a space that can cater for patrons seamlessly from the early morning to the late evening.

The client wanted the space to be flexible in how it could be used through the day – they needed it to be light and open during the morning when the venue was a café, while also being a warm and intimate venue come nightfall. We achieved this with large, mobile, curved velvet lounges under high-level planting, subtle leather and brass touches, and full-length curtains that allow users to create smaller function spaces when needed.

The name ‘Whistle Dixie’ came from a Clint Eastwood movie, which injected some fun into the fitout - not just in name but also in touches throughout all the branding. This was a true reflection of the clients’ attitude, which we were able to highlight as we took them on an identity & branding journey. It was extremely important that the venue’s interior design and the Whistle Dixie brand worked seamlessly together. We worked closely with the client to create the logos, graphics, signage & stationery, which has given the restaurant a truly unique identity.

Photography by Mindi Cooke

The refurbishment of the Master Builders Queensland offices was a big step for the board, and a huge commitment to change. From the start, we were aware of the association’s heritage, and its importance to the building community.

We went on a journey with the Master Builders team where we explored who they were, how they wanted to be presented to the general community, and what mattered the most to them. This helped to identify the essence of the project for us – the few key things that needed to hold true through the whole fitout. These qualities included the following: heritage, craftsmanship, high- quality of workmanship, functionality, connection, and modesty.

This exploration led us to look at the history of Queensland builders – their craft, and the materials they work with. We created subtle touches through the fitout showcasing traditional materials in their raw form, to remind visitors of the origins of Master Builders. These little details helped to identify different spaces as you move through the building and help to create the sense of a journey – you go from timber through copper, steel and brass details as you get further into the building.

Another key concern that came out in early workshops with the clients was the connectivity between different teams in the office. The old layout consisted a segmented cluster of small rooms, which meant that space was being used inefficiently, and many of the staff felt disconnected from the rest of the office and from the members. We were able to combine spaces and win enough previously-wasted area to allow for centralised break-out spaces, small team meeting rooms and spaces for people to congregate casually away from their work desks. Most of the lower ground floor was repurposed as a refreshing lunch area with the feeling of an outdoor café, complete with extensive end-of-trip facilities.

Photography by Mindi Cooke

This is the first experience store of its size in Australia which commanded attention from all stakeholders from Australia to Germany.  Miele wanted to envelope their brand in an interior space that complimented the fabric of the building and this is where Ellivo came in.

The existing shell was challenging and exciting and made for a complex design. With such a refined brand and strong graphics we decided to use the angles, voids and existing concrete fabric to act as the stage for the experiences. The customer journey was carefully planned out amongst the architectural elements to create a space that can adapt with product developments into the future.

Our brief was therefore twofold, create a sleek commercial podium, and a multi-residential upper that responds to the transitionary nature of the site.

We drew upon early 20th century modernism as inspiration for the simple yet bold forms of the façade. Bands of concrete frame the showroom, which is softened by a double height curved glass façade that is grounded by a garden. The curved glass wall draws residents & visitors into the entry, giving back space and volume to the street and giving a sense of openness to the street.

A simple material pallet of concrete, glass, steel, metal cladding & vegetation create a balance between a commercial aesthetic podium and a human scale level of detail for the residential component above.

We used subtropical design fundamentals including vegetation, flow through ventilation, natural light & solar control to make sure we created a high-quality living environment for the residents & commercial tenants. This includes a communal recreation space on the roof with a pool and steam room to offer a meeting place for residents.

Photography by Scott Burrows

Being designers we were excited by the prospect of testing our approach to the end user by starting with our staff and clients and personifying their needs and mapping out their possible journey with us.  We soon realised that our clients and staff were all very different and this led us to create spaces that could adapt.

We created private spaces where meetings can be confidential, small meeting spaces and public spaces where people can connect. We wrapped all of these in a series of movable curtains that change the privacy and use of the spaces. We can cocoon spaces and make them private, we can adjust lighting and become more of an entertaining space. The uses are varied and practical to take us through the next five or ten years that we may be here.

CLIENT | ELLIVO STATUS | COMPLETE (2018) SCALE | 350SQM PHOTOGRAPHY | MINDI COOKE PHOTOGRAPHER

This is a very young and vibrant business, bursting with enthusiasm that we were very excited by the first time we listened to their vision for their move to much larger premises.  Taking over a largely existing floor we had a modest budget with which to create their dream – the arrival to a law firm that was to be very AJ & Co.

From the lift doors opening on level 18 of Waterfront Place the foyer opens up through their arrival area to river and city views. There is no reception welcome, just a welcoming space, iPad sign in and then onto the lounge. Complete with bar and spaces to meet and relax, the space is to be shared and enjoyed.

Photography by Mindi Cooke

Their desire to demonstrate integrity and openness is embedded within their new home. From the moment you step inside the front door the client area is open and has views to Newstead beyond and the newly refurbished historical Gasometer. The combination of smoky glass, polished concrete, concrete, plywood and leather provides comfort and texture in the detailing and a most warm welcome.

Rainbow Bay is an evolving beachfront boulevard of Coolangatta. We partnered with our long-term client Aspect Property Group, to deliver a catalyst of exclusive living which reflects the unique assets of the site, in particular the direct proximity to Rainbow Bay beach. Our client sought to deliver to a niche of down-sizing owner-occupiers looking for a premium product. We focused on creating a timeless built form, minimising the amount of rendered surfaces was important in delivering a building that aims to look admirable long into the future.

Photographed by Andy MacPherson Studio

Arena is a collective response to the context of the people, the site, views, orientation and ground level activation. We partnered with Galileo, to deliver something unlike anything else is South Brisbane and its strong bold form makes a real statement in the vibrant South Brisbane community. The central courtyard defined by the expression of the podium form, is the heart of Arena and is host to active public gathering areas, and private retreat and refection nooks.  The rotated podium and tower form takes advantage of the expansive view lines, allow views for neighbouring buildings and creates an urban courtyard that contributes to both the public and private amenity.

The Providence Sales and Community Centre embodies the values of a vibrant new neighbourhood precinct located in the Ripley Valley. The Centre serves as a welcoming gateway, reflecting true community living while holding a strong connection to the landscape in which it is sited. Situated amongst vegetated nature reserves, the design seeks to connect and blur boundaries between the inside and outside, unlocking views across the adventure playground and mountain ranges beyond and balancing the requirement of an open accessible ‘pavilion’, while engaging with the landscape. The design is accessible, welcoming and familiar and enhances the existing features of the site for all visitors to share and enjoy.

Fortitude Valley is located on the fringe of Brisbane’s CBD and showcases a mixture of heritage brick buildings, art and nightlife. Fortitude Café embraces the ‘Valley’ vibe with pops of neon, colour and memorable graphics which pay tribute to the locality and history of the area. The café sits on the ground floor of a large office building, and is directly accessible to office workers, passing pedestrians, construction workers and nearby residents. We took our clients on an identity and branding journey, working in partnership to create the logos, graphics and stationery, which has given Fortitude Café a truly unique identity.

The fitout is light filled and open-aired, balancing a refined yet edgy personality. Featuring pops of pink neon lettering (‘The F. Word’) - sitting above a pink velvet banquette in the lounge, hand glazed emerald green tiles, distinctive Patricia Urquiola triangle breeze blocks, herringbone terracotta tiles, the design emphasises our client’s passion for their work and has created a distinctive living and dining area.

Lorna Jane sought our guidance to update, professionalise and re-energise their brand through a number of fitouts Austalia wide.

Ellivo Architects carried the concept ideas through to construction to achieve a unique fitout which represented the “Active Living” ethos of the Lorna Jane brand.

Aerocare have a proud history in Australia and New Zealand as a leading independent ground handling company. They were keen for their surroundings to demonstrate to others what they do and their enthusiasm. It was critical to us to include their sense of fun and let this fitout become part of the brand. Together we took a creative approach to work spaces in conjunction with them and the developer (landlord).

Harnessing the concrete and blockwork surrounds, the natural light and their strong aeronautical links, this inspired the selections, colours and elements within. Passion and energy was delivered through installations, graffiti mural and the ‘escape’slide which connects the two levels and defines in the built form who they are.

Petrie Terrace, wedged between the CBD, Milton and Paddington, is rapidly becoming a hot spot for after-work drinks, evening dining and weekend catch-ups from young professionals to inner-city workers. Growing tired of the existing ordinary hotel offerings, visitors seek a dynamic, elegant yet acquainted answer to their short-stay accommodation. We felt it only fitting to pay homage to the cultural background of Petrie Terrace. The articulated building form and selection of materials including white tiled archways and classic red brick, nod at Petrie Terrace’s industrial past and highlights the elegance of the surrounding heritage brick and stone buildings.

The second stage of The Village Yeronga builds upon the established success of the village, refining the design to further enrich a community-focused independent living environment for its residents. Set within the leafy and tranquil suburb of Yeronga, the development embraces its unique parkland setting to foster a lifestyle defined by connection, comfort and quiet enjoyment. The Village Yeronga offers residents a rare balance of calm retreat and urban accessibility. Just five kilometres from Brisbane’s CBD, the village is ideally positioned to provide convenient access to health services, shopping precincts and cultural amenities, while remaining deeply connected to the relaxed, green character that defines Yeronga.

The apartments and penthouses have been architecturally designed to support independent living while offering flexibility for residents’ changing needs over time. Light-filled interiors, considered layouts and seamless connections to outdoor spaces enhance daily living, while passive design principles and durable, low-maintenance materials contribute to long-term comfort and operational efficiency.

Communal spaces throughout the village are central to daily life, encouraging social interaction, wellbeing and a strong sense of belonging. Together, these elements ensure The Village Yeronga remains a place where residents can continue to live confidently, independently and with dignity, supported by a resilient and thoughtfully designed community.

Newstead a suburb in transformation – converting from a warehouse district into a hip, inner city hub with no shortage of shopping, dining and nightlife options. With Brisbane CBD, New Farm’s James Street and Fortitude Valley just a short stroll away, the site is at the heart of the entertainment and lifestyle precinct. La Vida is an extension to this energetic community. Together with Bekaa group, we sought to deliver a sleek and contemporary expression of the suburb, providing residents with resort living amenities with a luxury touch with views to the edges of Brisbane. These large, open, spacious apartments are designed with luxury in mind while still being an entertainer’s dream.

Photographer: Scott Shirley

Rochedale is located within the middle ring of Brisbane and is known for its friendly community, rich farming history, relatively low density and abundant nature reserves. Its well connected locality has seen the suburb develop rapidly with new master planned estates. We partnered with Aveo Group to create a catalyst for a community’s wellness, fitness and connection. With resort style living a key component to the brief, it was hard not to have fun on this project. We studied the context, site opportunities and various building materials, to create a unique cultural feature of the area.

The Hyatt Coolum Visitor Centre for Lend Lease welcomes visitors with expansive walls of glass capturing views to Mount Coolum. The light filled open plan space caters for functions, openings and a permanent sales display with associated offices. Copper clad walls and an earthy patina to the subdued material and colour palette, settling the building into its golf course location. The floating roof is accentuated by effective lighting by night to give the appearance that the whole form floats lightly over the ponds beneath.

Less than five kilometres from Brisbane CBD, Stones Corner is a well-connected inner south-eastern suburb of the city nestled between Greenslopes and Woolloongabba. With a strong history, this gazetted nook is growing as a cultural and lifestyle precinct. Being a major residential destination for Brisbane’s young professionals, Stones Corner residents seek a dynamic home which enhance the existing offerings of the area including its connections to Hanlon Park and Bikeway, and the active Stones Corner retail strip.

In Partnership with Lantona, the design of Oxy aims to be complementary to its context by using a material palette that is sympathetic to its surroundings, while providing a high level of private and social amenity. Materials such as weatherboard, timber palings and brickwork provide a sense of familiarly. The weatherboard façade pattern represents the roof form of the traditional Queensland Cottage – a nod to the historical vernacular.

Photographed by Andy MacPherson Studio

Jade is one of our most iconic and memorable projects. Everything about the project was exemplary. The vision for the project was to attract an international clientele who would be using these for permanent residences or for holidays. This understanding informed the project at every level, from the flow of the floor plan to the detailing of the understated but opulent finishes. The result is pure luxury but with genuinely Queensland sense of relaxed living.

Timeless architecture is difficult to achieve, but there is no doubt that this project still remains one of our most recognised and enduring projects.

Designing for the specific characteristics of a place and its people is a mantra in our studio. Enclave at is a great example of how an understanding of these elements can make a great place. Our client recognised the limited offerings for medium density options in the Wynnum Manly area. Our brief was born out of the area, its residents and the characteristics that define bayside living. Three buildings offer three types of living, from townhomes to generous apartments. The key elements of the design are views, bay breezes, and a level of accommodation that appeals to owner occupiers. It also has to “fit“ in the local area. The materials and scale were driven by the desire to embrace and reflect the scale and feel of the neighbourhood. The central timber boardwalk reflects the nearby mangrove boardwalks. But the most important ingredient is to create the spaces that reinforce community. This is not a gated community, it provides security but contributes to the streetscape and provides great communal spaces for the owners.