Addisons by Studio Tate: A Legal Workplace Shaped by Precision, Rhythm and Care
Addisons’ new workplace marks a defining moment for the Sydney based law firm. Its first relocation in over two decades, the project reflects both continuity and evolution, honouring the firm’s legacy while positioning it confidently for the future. Designed by Studio Tate, the workplace balances focus, collaboration and adaptability through a considered, narrative driven approach.
Occupying two levels at 2 Park Street, overlooking Sydney Town Hall and the Queen Victoria Building, the 2,300 square metre fit out accommodates 120 staff with capacity for growth. The relocation was informed by a pre existing workplace strategy developed by Bates Smart, which defined spatial objectives, performance metrics and long term flexibility from the outset.
“The interlocking components of watch wheels and pinions work in perfect harmony, drawing parallels to Addisons’ pragmatic, responsive and precise approach to commercial law,” says Anita Zampichelli, Associate Director at Studio Tate.
This idea is translated architecturally through rhythm, proportion and repetition. Spatial sequences unfold with measured pacing, while detailing and material junctions are resolved with restraint. The result is a workplace that reflects Addisons’ pragmatic, responsive and precise approach to commercial law, without overt gestures or excess.
The arrival sequence establishes a calm, composed tone. A sculptural stone reception desk echoes the angular geometry of the building façade, grounding the space with weight and permanence. Walnut panelling introduces warmth and tactility, softening the formality often associated with legal environments.
A stepped hallway detail creates a sense of movement and progression, subtly guiding visitors through the client facing areas. At the centre, a lounge space opens to expansive views of the QVB. Tiered fabric lined walls, gold toned carpets and sculptural furniture form a refined setting for informal meetings and waiting, balancing professionalism with comfort.
Boardrooms and meeting rooms are distinguished through petrol blue carpeting, offering visual clarity while maintaining continuity across the floorplate. These spaces transition seamlessly into a breakout area designed to host gatherings, presentations and firm wide events.
The communal kitchen and breakout zone introduces a lighter, more expressive atmosphere. Granite benchtops, a stainless steel coffee bench and oversized chequered flooring shift the tone from formality to approachability. Deep plum-toned banquettes provide generous, flexible seating, encouraging informal connection and shared rituals throughout the day.
This space reflects a deliberate decision to support culture through everyday moments. Rather than treating communal areas as secondary, Studio Tate positioned them as central to the workplace experience, allowing staff to gather, pause and connect beyond task driven interactions.
The primary work floors balance privacy with openness. Perimeter and core offices are integrated within an open plan framework, supported by shared utilities and collaboration zones. Dual offices provide adaptability over time, allowing the workplace to evolve alongside changing team structures.
Moments of contrast are introduced through claret toned booths with houndstooth screens and integrated greenery. These spaces offer informal meeting points and quiet retreat, encouraging collaboration without compromising focus.
A central stair connects to an additional work level, promoting movement through the building while offering casual seating and visual connection between teams.
Sustainability measures were embedded throughout the project. These include locally made joinery, carpet tiles with recycled content, low VOC finishes and the reuse of existing meeting chairs and base building ceiling tiles. The majority of furniture was sourced through Living Edge, streamlining procurement and reducing emissions associated with transport and delivery.
Delivered through close collaboration, much of it conducted remotely, the project reflects a strong partnership between Studio Tate and Addisons. The resulting workplace is neither overtly corporate nor casually informal. Instead, it offers a measured environment that supports concentration, collaboration and long term adaptability.
Addisons’ new workplace demonstrates how narrative, strategy and material intelligence can come together to shape a contemporary legal environment. One that feels grounded, responsive and quietly confident in its purpose.
Interior Design, Furniture and Styling: Studio Tate
Workplace Strategy: Bates Smart
Builder: MPA
Photography: Dave Wheeler
