Rabobank: Refurbishing for Modern Workspaces
Build Date
2023 & 2024
Location
Leongatha & Sale, Victoria
Client
Rabobank
Architect / Designer
Mckain Services / In-house design
Value
$125,000 each office
This dual project saw our team refurbish Rabobank branches in Leongatha and Sale. The client’s objective was to create more functional, modern and collaborative workspaces for their staff. The primary issue at both sites was a lack of dedicated staff amenities and outdated, segregated office layouts that hindered communication and modern work practices.
Our design solution focused on creating new staff kitchens and boardrooms while opening the general office areas to improve workflow, collegiality, and the penetration of natural light.
Both refurbishments incorporated high-grade, durable commercial materials, including hard-wearing laminate joinery and commercial carpet tiles. The subtle integration of Rabobank’s corporate orange into the carpet design reinforced brand identity, while the choice of materials ensured long-term durability and ease of maintenance.
The Sale refurbishment had an extra challenge as it was conducted on a live site. Maintaining a safe, functional business environment during the construction phase was critical.
We constructed temporary dividing walls using insulated plywood hoarding panels. These panels effectively mitigated construction noise and dust, allowing staff to continue their work safely and securely. This careful planning and execution demonstrated our commitment to delivering quality outcomes without disrupting day-to-day operations.
Both branches required thoughtful integration of the new designs into the existing building layouts. Many of the original walls were non-square and non-plumb, presenting challenges in aligning new elements seamlessly with the old. Our team’s attention to detail ensured a smooth transition between old and new, resulting in cohesive, visually appealing office environments.
Features such as full-height glass panels in the Sale branch brought additional natural light into staff areas, further enhancing the sense of openness and connection throughout the workspace.
By rethinking the flow of each space, in both branch locations, we were able to create zones that encouraged collaboration while providing staff with private, comfortable areas for focused work.
Both projects were delivered efficiently, with timelines carefully managed to ensure minimal disruption to bank operations. Our team completed the installation of frames and plastering in just two days at the Sale branch, a testament to both planning and on-site coordination. The Leongatha refurbishment also adhered to tight deadlines while providing staff with significantly improved facilities.
Both projects demonstrated our ability to deliver high-quality outcomes under time-sensitive conditions, a critical factor for commercial clients.
Upon completion, the client’s response was overwhelmingly positive. Staff were immediately able to enjoy modern, functional workspaces with features such as stand-up desks, accessible kitchen areas, and open-plan zones that fostered greater collaboration. The success of these refurbishments led Rabobank to offer our team the opportunity to refurbish branches across Australia, highlighting the impact of professional, efficient project delivery.
