Korn Ferry

Following the introduction of flexible working, Korn Ferry’s Sydney office was underutilised, with occupancy below 20%. The workplace no longer reflected the brand’s premium positioning or supported hybrid work. 

The organisation needed a workplace design that would attract people back, elevate the client experience, and express the professionalism and warmth at the heart of its brand. 

Key challenges included: 

• Underutilised space: Two partially occupied floors resulted in inefficient leasing and unnecessary costs. 

• Office attendance: Low workplace attendance and limited interaction eroded teamwork and sense of belonging. 

• Focus and private deficit: The open plan layout hindered concentration and confidential work due to poor acoustics and a lack of enclosed offices. Employees reverted to assigned seating, undermining flexibility. 

• Outdated customer experience: Front of house areas were underutilised, outdated and lacked the sophistication expected of a global advisory firm. 

• Technology limitations: Meeting rooms and AV systems failed to support hybrid collaboration.
  

Spaceful conducted detailed staff surveys, interviews, and utilisation studies to understand behavioural patterns, identify barriers to office attendance, and shape a strategy aligned with Korn Ferry’s business objectives. The insights revealed that employees wanted privacy, improved acoustics, and spaces that supported both focused work and collaboration. 

The strategy repositioned the office as a destination workplace, with experiences and connection that can’t be replicated at home. By consolidating two levels (1,925sqm) into one (1,170sqm), the footprint was reduced by more than 35%, unlocking significant savings while improving performance and spatial efficiency. 

The new office design is a calm, inspiring and people-centric environment. A gallery-inspired aesthetic provides a subtle backdrop for the Korn Ferry identity, celebrating diversity, creativity and collaboration. A palette of neutral tones, warm bronze accents, sage greens, and light timbers delivers a timeless sense of professionalism and warmth.  

Key design features include: 

• Reception and client zone: A striking entry with sweeping curves, a sculpted boomerang desk, and panoramic Sydney views immediately sets the scene for visiting guests. The adaptable front-of-house easily converts into an event space via retractable boardroom walls. 

• Strategic layout: A mix of enclosed offices, quiet rooms and agile collaboration areas balance privacy and connection while the layout maximises airflow and daylight. 

• Technology integration: Updated AV, room booking systems, and touchscreen panels support seamless hybrid working. Fully zoned lighting with daylight harvesting and dynamic controls suit diverse work modes. 

• Sustainability: Selective reuse and repositioning of existing furniture supports ESG goals and budget efficiency. 

• Comfort and efficiency: Soft furnishings, cosy booths, ergonomic office chairs and cushioned seating enhance comfort, while innovative workstations with integrated whiteboards improve privacy and functionality in open areas.  

Delivered on time and to a high standard, the fit-out highlights Spaceful’s commitment to design excellence, sustainability, and future-focused workplace strategy. 

Sustainability and energy efficiency were integral to the delivery with program efficiency key from the outset. 

Delivery highlights include:

• Reuse of existing furniture: Select pieces were retained and repurposed to reduce environmental impact and project costs. 

• Advanced lighting systems: CBUS and Organic Response lighting controls support energy efficiency, daylight harvesting, and user comfort. 

• Ambient lighting in transition zones: Non-working areas feature ambient, vertical lighting to create a calm and visually engaging environment. 

• Efficient programming: The stair infill was completed ahead of schedule, enabling a seamless transition into main construction, minimising disruption and maintaining project momentum.

The result is a sophisticated, agile environment that supports Korn Ferry’s evolving operational needs while celebrating the iconic architecture and sweeping views of Aurora Place.