Back to Basics | Elevating Your Fitout With Timber
Let’s get back to basics and get grounded with nature. As much as wood is a prominent material in the fit-out world for its functional benefits, we sometimes undervalue its aesthetic capabilities as a key design feature. With many materials like marble and metals taking the stage in the design, it’s about time for our appreciation of wood to return. We love spaces that allow different timbers to shine and take the spotlight. With the variety of species, as well as grains and cuts, the way we can utilise this material is endless. This week, we’re highlighting some of Unita’s favourite fit-outs that use wood as a key design element and why you should consider utilising it in your fit-out.
BUILT BY UNITA | Fish + Lemonade – Manly, NSW
Elevate Your Space
Recently, Unita was engaged by one of Australia’s industry-leading wood suppliers, Havwoods to deliver the fit-out of their latest showroom in Melbourne, VIC. Spanning 261sqm and stocked with their signature timbers throughout the space, it is a true representation of a show-stopping showroom. Designed by Collectivus, Havwoods’ latest location uses an open floor plan with island-like display cabinets to allow staff and customers to view samples. Given Havwoods’ premium offerings, their fit-out needed to showcase their products to the fullest potential, and the Unita VIC team couldn’t be more thrilled with the result. So, keep your eyes peeled for the final photos of their showroom you won’t want to miss it.
Another project that we fell in love with is Fish + Lemonade in Manly, NSW. Delivered by the Unita NSW team in under 8-weeks and designed by the iconic Paul Kelly Design, the ’80s-inspired restaurant uses American Oak panelling on the walls, with soft pink accents to reflect a premium, yet playful vibe. Drawing inspiration from Fish + Lemonade, timber finishes can be used in conjunction with additional materials and colours
BUILT BY UNITA | The Bob Hawke Beer and Leisure Centre – Marrickville, NSW
Sustainable and Stylish
Another reason why we love fit-outs that utilise timber is its environmental benefits. Although many believe that the over-utilisation of wood can lead to a large carbon footprint, research begs to differ! According to Australia’s Climate Commission, when the trees are sustainably harvested and used to make wood products, the carbon remains stored in the wood for the life of the product.
Designed by Studio Isgro and delivered by our skilled Unita NSW team, The Bob Hawke Beer and Leisure Centre has marked itself as one of the mightiest projects our NSW team have ever delivered. Paying homage to the late ex-prime minister, Bob Hawke and 80’s Australiana, the new leisure centre has a special sustainable twist to its design with many design elements aimed at reducing the brewery’s carbon footprint. As such, Studio Isgro utilises solid timber and veneer panelling throughout the space to create a nostalgic feel, while also being cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
BUILT BY UNITA | Park Clinic – Surry Hills, NSW
Go Against the Grain
Although our favourite projects so far have been within the retail and hospitality sectors, timber can also be beautifully incorporated into your medical fit-out. A prime example of this is Park Clinic in Surry Hills, NSW. Built by Unita NSW and designed by NBRS Architecture, the luxe space elevates the patient experience by utilising dark stained wooden finishes on the floors and ceilings to create space that “goes against the grain” of traditional clinic design.
We’re ready for wood’s return to popularity. The aesthetic versatility of wood is something we sometimes undervalue as trendy materials come into style. However, the longevity of wood is something that you can’t deny. Choosing a certain species with a grain or way it’s styled can ultimately give your space a one-of-a-kind feel that cannot be mimicked by other materials.
