Building a commercial headquarters in the Sunshine Coast hinterland presented a complex technical challenge. The site featured a steep gradient and significant old-growth vegetation, requiring a construction methodology that would eliminate the need for heavy earthworks or excavation. The objective was to move beyond standard office typologies and deliver a “living lab” that physically demonstrated our philosophy of cost-effective, high-performance, and environmentally sensitive design.
This project served as an internal test case for our delivery capabilities, yet it garnered significant external validation. The outcome was judged for a national sustainability award by Kevin McLeod of Grand Designs fame, positioning POMO within a global dialogue on sustainable architecture. The project received recognition as Queensland’s most Sustainable Commercial Office Design and secured two state design awards.
We approached our own studio with the same rigour we apply to all of our work. The focus was on local identity, place character, creating something that was a perfect fit for the place but also with a focus on structural efficiency, material provenance, and sustainability systems.
To address the steep slope without invasive earthmoving a steel suspension system was created. Steel poles were engineered to elevate the structure, allowing the natural terrain to remain undisturbed beneath. This methodology reduced site costs and eliminated the need for complex retaining walls, demonstrating how smart engineering can solve difficult topographical constraints. No old growth trees were removed from site for the construction.
The procurement strategy prioritised local availability and carbon reduction. We specified manufactured I-beams made from sustainable plantation pine instead of hardwood, ensuring structural integrity with a lower environmental footprint. These were made in Sth East Qld by Hyne Timber from locally grown plantation pine. The flooring utilised high-density particle board containing timber by-products, which was left unsealed to avoid the off-gassing associated with commercial carpets or chemical treatments.
All internal cladding is plywood, which is made from sustainable local forestry. Internal furniture is custom made, also from plywood, and the design of each workspace includes dedicated bench space for people to instantly collaborate by simply rotating 90 degrees. Our “picnic table” style central meeting table features bench seating (rather than individual seats) which increases the sense of connectivity and collaboration between participants in meetings.
The roof design features a gutterless system that returns rainwater directly to the surrounding bushland, maintaining the natural hydrological cycle. We integrated floor-to-ceiling glass on the north face to maximise winter solar gain while utilising the existing canopy for summer shading. This passive thermal control is supported by a cross ventilation strategy.
The POMO Studio stands as a physical benchmark for sustainable design and delivery. Thanks to it’s award winning status, it was featured in a range of media outlets as an exemplar of sustainable design.
The implementation of LED lighting and passive design principles has resulted in an approximate 80% reduction in energy consumption compared to standard office builds. Beyond the metrics, the open-plan layout has measurable benefits for our team, fostering increased collaboration and workflow efficiency.
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