The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG) trains and accredits doctors across the region in obstetrics and gynaecology. Its new headquarters located in Melbourne delivers a contemporary space which is warm and functional, as well as cleverly incorporating sources of indirect light and pieces of the past.

In 2020, the prestigious college acquired the six-storey CBD building at Bowen Crescent in Melbourne, expecting to occupy five out of the six floors. Léo Terrando was engaged as the interior designer for the space during his time at SJB, and he continued to work on the project after launching his own design practice. He worked in collaboration with SHAPE and Project Manager, David Klein to bring his vision to life.

As the new building was acquired at the beginning of the pandemic, the project immediately presented the challenges of meeting, conceptualising and collaborating on an unseen site, strictly over video calls. The project was officially completed and presented to employees at an opening ceremony in February 2022.

The Brief

Flos and Oluce lighting was used to enhance the ambiance and functionality of each space, showcasing the versatility and design excellence of the chosen products and their ability to transform different environments through effective lighting.

Lighting plays a pivotal role in creating a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing environment. The carefully selected lighting fixtures, transform the spaces into inviting and functional areas which includes the reception, a seating area, breakout spaces, a meeting room, and an office environment.

The new RANZCOG headquarters would be a fit-for-purpose space for its 110 employees, but it would also double up as a venue for functions and a gallery to display its books and other historical items. The design language in this space had to consider these varying needs.

- Léo Terrando

The brief from the client was to create a space that could accommodate RANZCOG’s growing team, and the organisation’s current and anticipated future needs. While the new offices would comprise distinct workspaces for different teams, it would also feature multiple meeting rooms and areas to facilitate collaborative working among the teams.

The reception is often the first point of contact for visitors, and it sets the tone for their overall experience. By incorporating the iconic Flos Arco floor lamp, the reception exudes an atmosphere of elegance and sophistication. The Arco's arched design and diffused lighting provide a warm and welcoming glow, creating a sense of comfort for those waiting. The lamp's adjustable arm allows for targeted illumination, making it ideal for reading areas or highlighting specific points of interest within the space.

The seating area requires a lighting solution that not only enhances the ambiance but also adds a touch of artistic expression. The Flos Luminator, a versatile uplighting fixture, is selected to achieve this objective. With its striking sculptural form, the Luminator serves as a visually captivating focal point while providing gentle indirect lighting. The uplighting effect creates a warm and cozy atmosphere within the seating area, encouraging relaxation and conversation.

This project was not your traditional corporate fit out, but a really unique opportunity to collaborate and intuitively design a headquarters that will be utilised for generations to come

- Léo Terrando

The centerpiece of the seating area is the Oluce Atollo table lamp, an iconic lighting fixture designed by Vico Magistretti. The Atollo lamp features a distinctive geometric shape, with a cone-shaped base and a hemispherical shade, creating a harmonious balance of form and function. Its timeless design, available in various finishes and sizes, allows it to seamlessly integrate into diverse interior styles.

The meeting room is a space that requires both functional and aesthetic lighting. The Flos Skygarden pendant light serves as a centerpiece, suspended above the meeting room table. Its unique design features a decorative plaster diffuser with intricate patterns inspired by classical architecture. The downward illumination from the Skygarden provides ample task lighting for meetings while creating a visually captivating focal point. This fixture's blend of functionality and artistry ensures an engaging and productive atmosphere for discussions and collaborations.

Efficiency and task-oriented lighting are crucial in an office environment. The Flos Aim pendant lights are strategically placed throughout the office space to provide focused illumination on workstations and areas requiring task lighting. The adjustable cables and directional lighting feature of the Aim fixtures allow for personalised positioning, ensuring optimal lighting conditions for individual workspaces. The sleek and contemporary design of the Aim pendant lights adds a touch of modernity to the office environment while promoting a productive and well-lit workspace.

To create this special space for RANZCOG really feels like a once in a lifetime opportunity that I’m very honoured and privileged to have been a part of, and cannot wait to see it being utilised to its full potential

- Léo Terrando