Following a series of security events at their main reception area, lead ElectraNet to engaged Grieve Gillett Architects to redesign the building entry, main reception, staff amenities breakout space, meeting rooms and lift to address equity of access requirements.

Located in the State heritage listed Rymill Building, the building had undergone a refit in 2003 which was rich in detail and embellishment. Initially identifying these newer works from original fabric was undertaken to ensure maintenance and integrity of the original build.

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Through extensive consultation with ElectraNet's executive and reception staff to determine optimum functional and operational requirements of the reception and visitor registration, together with our security expertise we designed a safe, secure but appropriate barrier system. We consciously worked with ElectraNet executive and State Heritage Unit to balance the need for high security with a welcoming reception entry.

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The restrained and understated materials palette of steel, glass and timber responded to the original heritage context but also aimed to sit subtly within a visibly cluttered double height volume. The result is a spatially complex, but visually simple insertion into the heritage fabric. The excellent security and circulation optimisation achieved by an appropriate contemporary insertion has been recognised in feedback from our clients and users.