Tucked away in a narrow laneway in a back street of South Melbourne, LSR Construction’s new headquarters draws attention with its inviting street-level entry. Designed by Made For, the fitout showcases LSR’s construction capabilities, while also balancing raw industrial features with elements of warmth.
The journey into the HQ is a key part of the experience. Upon arrival, the pocket-sized space unfolds to reveal a bold blue staircase leading to the first floor office space, tiered built-in brick seating, and a sculptural curved bulkhead wrapped with Eveneer WoodWall in Havana. Timber tones balance the exposed brick, adding warmth and depth. The curved bulkhead plays a critical role in shaping the space by introducing a sense of softness. “It was about creating a gentle entry point – a space that transitions from touchdown to breakout, while also breaking up the openness of the building,” says Eddie Poate, designer at Made For and lead on the project.
The saturated, electric blue staircase makes a strong statement. “The blue became a defining element,” Poate explains. “It went through different iterations—there was deep burgundy at one point—but ultimately, the blue aligned with LSR’s branding and provided that wow factor.”
LSR and Made For chose to retain the original roller door as a way to navigate compliance requirements. While unconventional, the industrial façade and ground floor break out area harmonise with the surrounding urban context.
Having been longtime collaborators on other projects, it was a natural progression for Made For to come onboard for LSR’s new workplace. “There was a strong desire to build and work with their own skillset,” Poate says. “The existing warehouse was a key driver in shaping the space. Instead of masking its industrial character, we worked with it, letting it guide the design,” he says.
The layout is designed for functionality, with a client-facing ground floor zone and workspace above. The breakout space serves as a focal point, offering an inviting entryway that leads seamlessly into the boardroom where a pavilion-style structure provides privacy without disrupting the open flow of the interior.
Eveneer WoodWall is the key material in achieving these fluid transitions, wrapping down from the bulkhead to the walls as full-height joinery. “For us, it was an easy choice,” Poate says, “It allowed us to create a seamless, integrated look, particularly in those curved details.” Having worked with the product before, the team knew how to optimise installation, ensuring the veneer sheets matched perfectly for a refined, cohesive finish.
Project: LSR Construction workplace
Designer: Made For
Photographer: Veeral Patel