IA Design chose timber lining boards from the beautiful Porta Contours collection to create tranquil movement using curved design elements in the Melbourne office of legal specialists MolinoCahill.

Relocating to the recently refurbished Olderfleet Building on Collins Street in Melbourne presented MolinoCahill with the perfect opportunity to create a new workplace. “One which provides both their teams and clients [with] a sophisticated environment. The bespoke design draws the occupant through the space with its soft curves and delicate contrasting elements,” explains IA Design.

Providing MolinoCahill with an end-to-end principal project delivery service, the IA Design team workshopped traditional and non-traditional legal spatial layouts. “A driving factor of the space planning was to provide an even flow and journey through the space, which was achieved through clever use of finishes, lighting, and curved partitions,” says IA Design.

The interiors feature a curved reception desk, meeting room wall and curved hallway wall clad in beautiful Porta Contours timber lining boards, with the curved custom timber panelling embracing and guiding occupants and visitors on their journey through the sophisticated space.

“The curved design elements create intrigue and draw the occupant through the space allowing for refined movement and circulation,” explains IA Design.

Porta Contours, which takes its inspiration from the contours of the Australian landscape, adds natural warmth, texture and movement to any commercial or retail space. Perfect as a feature in a reception, meeting room, boardroom, hallway, open plan work area or staff kitchen, Contours can also be used to clad cabinetry and doors as well as create concealed doorways for a seamless finish.

“A vital element of the delivery of the project was integrating the fitout design with the BIM requirements of the building. New technology allowed for achieving the best environmental considerations for the usability and longevity of the space,” states IA Design.

The sophisticated material palette and bold design statements conceptualised by IA Design introduce an even, tranquil flow of movement through the MolinoCahill workplace. “The utilisation of intriguing and inviting curves reveals a space that allows for pure and uninhibited freedom of movement and circulation,” explains IA Design. “Custom curved partitions, combined with a considered approach to finishes and lighting, play an integral role in guiding the occupant on a calm and comforting journey of discovery.”

The Porta Contours collection is available in a range of textured designs to create calming environments or vibrant patterns, and is suitable for straight and curved interior panelling. Suitable for vertical and horizontal applications, Contours is designed for ease of installation with a concealed tongue and groove connection. The panels can also be used in conjunction with any other Contours profile to create a unique design.

The MolinoCahill workplace features Contours in a custom V-Groove profile in Tasmanian Oak.

“The final product is a high end, functional and elegant workspace ensuring longevity for MolinoCahill,” concludes IA Design.

Porta is committed to sourcing timber from sustainable and environmentally responsible resources, holding Chain of Custody under internationally recognised and accredited organisations including the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC).

Photography: Nicole England