Positioned on the bustling edge of Swan Street with sweeping views of Melbourne’s skyline, McConnell Dowell’s new workplace is more than just an office; it’s a thoughtful fusion of engineering legacy, cultural storytelling, and acoustic excellence.

Designed by CO.OP and Architectus, and delivered in collaboration with Capabuild and Total Trade, the space balances high functionality with a deep respect for culture. At the heart of this design is Bark by Jenna Lee, part of the Contours of Country collection, a Decor Systems initiative developed in partnership with Blaklash and four acclaimed First Nations artists.

Jenna Lee’s contribution to the space is both powerful and poetic. Her artwork explores the intersection of language, materials, and cultural memory, centring on the Eucalyptus tree, one of Australia’s most iconic and traditionally used native plants. By etching imagery and textures of bark and seeds into DecorZen panels, Jenna reclaims narratives around collection and commodification. The result is a sensory experience that reconnects occupants to Country, visibly, audibly, and spiritually.

Decor_Systems_McConnell_Dowell_Bark_by_Jenna_Lee_Contours_of_Country 2.jpg — *Jenna Lee Bark finished in Smartlook Hoop Pine*

Beyond their visual impact, the Contours of Country panels deliver exceptional acoustic performance, absorbing up to 88% of incidental noise. Available in non-combustible fibre cement, MDF, or plywood, and backed by GECA, FSC®, and Supply Nation certifications.

Complementing these beautiful panels, DecorStyle brings warmth and balance to the open-plan environment – softening hard edges and making large spaces feel more inviting and connected. For MCD’s workplace, Bark and DecorStyle were both finished in our SmartLook Hoop Pine, achieving a Group 1 Fire Rating.

With 15% of every Contours of Country sale going directly to the artist, this is a solution that gives back, amplifying First Nations voices through the built environment. Winner of the 2023 Good Design Award for Product, this collection speaks to Decor Systems’ commitment to meaningful, place-based design.

In McConnell Dowell’s new headquarters, it’s a story you can see, hear, and feel.

Decor_Systems_McConnell_Dowell_Bark_by_Jenna_Lee_Contours_of_Country 3.jpg — *Jenna Lee Bark finished in Smartlook Hoop Pine*

Project details

Project: McConnell Dowell Workplace Fitout

Location: 480 Swan Street, Melbourne

Architects: Architectus & CO.OP

Builder: Capabuild

Contractors: Total Trade

Products: Contours of Country – DecorZen Bark & DecorStyle

Application: Internal

Photography: Shannon McGrath

Architecture & Design Team

Decor Systems

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