Boutique Commercial
fjcstudio designs boutique commercial buildings: workplaces of a more intimate scale, often within or alongside heritage fabric, where each building has its own identity and a close relationship to the street.
Our work ranges from the reinvention of existing office buildings to the adaptation of heritage streetscapes, combining workplace with retail, food, culture and public space.
388 George Street, Sydney
A new urban pavilion at the corner of King and George Streets reveals the grounding of John Andrews’ original tower, with a diagonal public arcade, a basement food market and a rooftop bar.
Oxford & Foley, Darlinghurst
Heritage buildings on Oxford Street are adapted with curvilinear roof additions, creative workspaces and through-site links that bring new life to Foley Lane.
Our Approach
Character and Identity
Boutique buildings compete on character rather than scale. We give each one a distinct address and identity, drawn from its site, its history and the people who will use it. A memorable entry, a considered material palette and a clear relationship to the street help a smaller building stand out.
Working with Existing Fabric
Many boutique workplaces sit within or beside heritage buildings. At 388 George Street, removing an intrusive podium revealed the grounding of the original tower. At Oxford & Foley, new roof forms align with the heritage parapet to keep the scale of the street. New elements are clearly of their time.
Smaller-Scale Tenancies
Riveted columns, arched windows and stepped heritage floors can become compelling smaller tenancies. We plan floors to suit a diversity of occupants, from creative studios to established businesses. Flexible layouts, good daylight and shared spaces let these buildings adapt as tenants grow and change over the long term.
Street and Laneway Life
Retail, food and beverage and through-site links connect each building to its neighbourhood, from the basement food market and rooftop venue at 388 George Street to new laneway tenancies on Foley Lane. An active ground plane brings people to the building, supports its tenants and adds to the life of the street.
For further information about our boutique commercial capability, please enquire by email. You can also explore our commercial towers and campus workplaces.
Related capabilities: adaptive reuse, commercial foyers and atria.