ARUP- A Workplace Reimagined

ARUP’s new workplace at 123 Albert Street in Brisbane represents a significant step forward in sustainable office design and construction. Spread across three levels of the recently refurbished building, the project is one of only a few in Australia pursuing the rigorous Living Building Challenge (LBC) certification, a globally recognised benchmark for regenerative and sustainable buildings. Designed by Hassell Studio, fabricated by MHC Carpentry, Glazing, and Tiling, and delivered by Buildcorp, the fitout reflects ARUP’s values, culture, and commitment to creating a workplace that supports people and fosters collaboration.

ARUP needed a new workplace because its previous office no longer reflected its values, culture, or ways of working. The goal was to create a flexible, people-centred environment that could grow with the business, foster collaboration, and strengthen the firm’s connection to Brisbane’s urban fabric. Every material, from timber and adhesives to aluminium and glazing, was carefully monitored through a digital dashboard, ensuring waste minimisation and full transparency. This approach prioritised salvaged and locally sourced materials, supporting circular economy principles and regenerative design practices.

A landmark achievement of the project is the 10 Star Green Star Interiors rating, the first of its kind completed in Australia. This milestone was made possible by Capral’s LocAl® Green lower-carbon aluminium and Declare Label certified products. LocAl Green aluminium, with a carbon footprint of just 8.0kg CO2e per kg, significantly reduces embodied carbon compared to the global average of 12.46kg. When combined with the transparency provided by Declare Labels, Capral products enabled the project to meet the demanding sustainability standards of both Green Star and the Living Building Challenge.

Capral’s range of high-performance framing and door systems played a crucial role throughout the fitout. The AGS 400 Narrowline Single Glazed framing system provided a versatile and visually balanced solution. The AGS 450 Narrowline Wide Pocket system accommodated double glazing, integrated blinds, and triple glazing, meeting the acoustic, impact, and energy efficiency requirements of the design. The AGS 225 Hinged Door delivered durable, flexible entry solutions, compatible with a wide range of hardware, while the AGS 225 Automatic Sliding Door, integrated with Assa Abloy systems, ensured accessibility and smooth movement throughout the workplace.

The successful delivery of these systems would not have been possible without MHC Carpentry Glazing Tiling, the fabricator responsible for both manufacturing and installing Capral’s windows, doors, and framing solutions. MHC’s experienced team brought technical expertise and exceptional craftsmanship to the project. By collaborating closely with Hassell Studio, Buildcorp, and Capral, MHC ensured that every component met the project’s exacting standards for performance, design, and sustainability.

The ARUP Brisbane workplace demonstrates how thoughtful design, collaboration, and innovation can combine to create a functional, adaptable, and regenerative environment. Through the integration of Capral’s LocAl Green aluminium and advanced framing and door systems, the project achieved outcomes that set new benchmarks for sustainable workplace design in Australia.