Designed with flexibility, sustainability, and collaboration at its core, the new space reflects Ashurst’s vision for the modern workplace. The office embodies Ashurst’s core values: Championing innovation to outpace change, and creating a dynamic, agile environment.

Architectus has crafted an integrated design that supports high performance, enhances well-being, and fosters a vibrant, future-ready culture.

Sustainability is embedded throughout, with limited over-cladding, locally sourced materials, and strategies that optimise natural light, air quality, and water efficiency, supporting both carbon reduction and employee wellbeing.

The building is powered entirely by renewable energy and has achieved a 6 Star Green Star rating and 5.5 Star NABERS Energy rating.

“Ashurst’s new workplace is designed for high performance, longevity, and agility, a place that’s all about people: from health and well-being, collaboration and innovation, to deep work and client engagement,” says Patricia Bondin, Principal at Architectus.

“It’s a space that empowers choice, celebrates connection, and embodies Ashurst’s future-forward mindset.”

At the heart of the project is a commitment to redefining the role of the legal workplace in a hybrid world. The design draws on lessons from the pandemic, transforming reactive remote-work measures into a considered, flexible planning approach and a purpose-driven workplace strategy.

Spanning 10,000sqm across eight podium levels and crowned by an outdoor terrace overlooking Martin Place, Ashurst’s Sydney office is the firm’s second-largest workplace globally, after its London headquarters.

Breaking from traditional legal office design, it adopts an agile, activity-based model. The environment includes diverse collaborative zones, focused work areas, meeting and mediation suites, adaptable training rooms, and team-specific spaces, tailored to the dynamic needs of a modern legal workforce.

The workplace incorporates a modular planning system that supports flexibility and efficiency, enabling future changes. A strategic approach to space sharing has identified optimal ratios, allowing teams to access a variety of shared areas. One floor is dedicated entirely to collaborative work, providing an environment designed for agile teamwork.

Amenities such as a café and terrace contribute to well-being and a positive professional environment. Paper-based storage has been minimised through the use of centralised storage areas and a reduction in local storage, supporting more agile ways of working.

The highly consultative design process involved workshops, interviews, and planning sessions with Ashurst’s people, ensuring the workplace meets diverse needs across practice groups.

This inclusive approach has produced an environment where teams gather with purpose, supported by intelligent spatial planning and robust digital infrastructure.

The interior design balances professionalism with warmth and vibrancy. Natural materials, such as timber and stone in warm terracotta tones, create a sense of welcome and authenticity.

Sculptural green staircases connect all work floors, with each level featuring a social hub that reinforces the firm’s dynamic culture and bold brand identity.

With direct links to Martin Place Train and Metro Stations, the workplace is uniquely positioned at the intersection of business, culture, and civic life.

This transformative project is a prototype for Ashurst’s future workplaces worldwide. It represents not just a new office, but a strategic and cultural shift, demonstrating how law firms can embrace agility, sustainability, and employee wellbeing without compromising excellence. It’s about democratising space.

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