Renowned visual effects company Industrial Light & Magic (ILM) engaged us to create an unconventional, immersive and experiential workplace for its Sydney team.
Building on our trusted partnership, we were tasked with consolidating multiple teams into one cohesive studio that accommodates both growth and flexibility. Inspired by ILM’s legacy of innovation and iconic storytelling, the new Sydney workplace supports the company in continuing to shape the entertainment industry globally.
Central to the brief was the goal of breaking away from conventional office solutions. ILM thrives on embracing the “unknowns and what-ifs”, empowering teams to innovate and bring imagination to life.
To support this spirit of experimentation, the design moved away from rows of desks and rigid layouts. Instead, our team responded to the building’s architecture with flowing, organic forms. Combining the comfort of home with the functionality of the workplace, the space supports accessibility, inclusivity and employee wellbeing.
ILM’s mission is to craft iconic visual stories that inspire imagination by pushing the boundaries of visual effects and immersive entertainment. Guided by this ethos, our design decisions placed user experience at the forefront.
Recognising the diverse needs of ILM’s highly skilled employees, flexibility was built into the environment to allow personalisation and task-specific adjustments. A carefully developed lighting strategy responds to the distinct requirements of each department.
For example, production teams, who require colour-accurate digital environments, benefit from indirect, adaptable lighting, motorised block-out window treatments and the elimination of reflective surfaces.
Neighbourhoods are organised into small team clusters to encourage collaboration. Customisable partition walls provide acoustic protection, visual privacy and opportunities for personalisation. Integrated greenery enhances wellbeing and strengthens employees’ sense of belonging.
A monochromatic palette integrates ILM’s brand colours while celebrating its most iconic films. Subtle shifts in tone support wayfinding and navigation, with colour consistently applied across wall treatments, splashbacks, furniture and even details such as tile grout.
Large-scale graphic artworks and decals showcase detailed close-ups from ILM’s best-known films, tied to each floor’s palette.
To strengthen the sense of place, a double-height pantry features a library wall showcasing original props, figurines, DVDs, and books from past productions. Custom reading pods invite employees to explore and be inspired.
The brief called for a workplace that promotes creativity and productivity through connection and teamwork. The campus-style environment balances focused work with ample social and collaborative spaces. A flexible kitchen breakout area, complete with a movable custom servery, supports company-wide town halls. Pool tables, arcade machines and board games create opportunities to unwind and socialise. Large LED screens enhance knowledge-sharing and presentations. A bespoke screening room was designed to support the precise review of visual effects. Built to high acoustic and light-reflection standards, it features a state-of-the-art audio-visual system, providing an immersive viewing experience.
Sustainability was embedded from design through to delivery. More than 800 LED light fixtures, motion sensors and Dynalite automation systems minimise energy use. A total of 64 custom joinery pieces and 5.6 tonnes of acoustic panels were installed, supported by 321 carefully managed deliveries to reduce disruption and environmental impact.
During construction, 87% of waste materials were recycled, with 654 tonnes diverted from landfill, equivalent to 1,090 cubic metres across 62 bins.
As part of ILM Sydney’s multi-phase transformation, the outdoor environment was reimagined to complete the campus experience. What began as a practical need to connect three buildings and resolve accessibility challenges evolved into a central gathering space that unites the workplace physically and culturally. Designed as a dynamic, people-centred hub, the courtyard encourages collaboration while promoting wellbeing and sense of belonging.
Amphitheatre seating, BBQ facilities and flexible gathering areas are complemented by ambient lighting, integrated AV and native landscaping, creating an adaptable setting for both daily use and large events. Covered and open zones encourage year-round enjoyment, while sliding doors from the main townhall extend activity outdoors. Overlooking the Entertainment Quarter, the courtyard reinforces ILM’s commitment to inclusivity, creativity and community.
Brought to life by 384 people from 128 contractors, this project demonstrates our continued commitment to building future-ready environments that spark innovation and imagination on a global scale.
Completed
2025
Sydney
5,000 sq m / 53,820 sq ft
Andrew Bell
