QT Melbourne Refurbishment

When we say our furniture is made to last a lifetime, we really mean it. Hear how Nic Graham & Assoc. extended the life of an iconic (and hardworking) rooftop setting with a refurbishment that saved time and materials – and came in at a third of the cost of new product.

Before and after the refurbishment process.

The original design

The story began in 2016 when we were invited by Nic Graham & Assoc. to do the initial fit-out of the rooftop space above Russell St, with the client QT Melbourne looking to work with local suppliers.

The Breeze Collection was selected for its ability to be customised with a unique combination of materials including metal frame, timber armrest and upholstered cushions. Our design studio worked up a customised solution to fit the floorplan and measurements. The venue opened up to much fanfare with the rooftop proving a popular venue for high-flyers — both locals and out-of-towners — wanting to set the night alight. After 7 years of heavy use, it was decided that this space, along with the rest of the venue, needed a freshen up. Our refurbishment program was chosen as the most cost-effective and sustainable way to make it happen.

 

DISCOVER BREEZE

Re-powder coating the Breeze Sofa frame at our Melbourne factory.

The anatomy of a smart refurbishment

The first part of the refurbishment journey was a thorough assessment of the existing pieces. Collaborating with NGA, we discussed strategies for rejuvenating the timber, and considered the opportunity to re-powdercoat and re-upholster in new colourways.

We carefully considered and selected fabrics and finishes that would be most appropriate. For example, we chose to upholster the seating in Instyle’s high performance Zone vinyl for its high quality, durability, and easy maintenance – ideal qualities for a bustling hospitality environment. Given the rooftop’s operational nature, meticulous planning was also essential to minimise disruption. The refurbishment of the Breeze Sofa, Corner Module, and Left and Right Module was carried out in three stages over eight weeks, ensuring completion before the venue’s busy Melbourne Cup event that year.

 

Breeze Sofas before refurbishment at QT Melbourne’s rooftop.

A strategic move

From the client side, EVT’s Design Director, Dean Duckworth, explains that the refurbishment was a strategic choice for the venue, adding to the aesthetic that the hotel is known for, and which attracts its high-flying design-conscious crowd.

‘The refurbishment of any well-loved and frequented hospitality venue, like QT Melbourne’s rooftop, requires careful consideration as customers love it for a reason,’ he says. ‘Because of that, the works need to have sound operational reasoning – a design spark so customers know there’s been a change. At the same time, we don’t want to change what people love about the place. So, mixing the new with refurbished furniture makes a huge amount of sense. Reuse of furniture can only happen when the original pieces are built of a high quality. That was definitely the case with Tait’s Australian-designed and handcrafted furniture.’

 

Refurbishment over replacement

Because we’re committed to making more responsibly, we intentionally design for refurbishment, to extend lifespan and minimise environmental impact. We aim for circularity at every touchpoint, so if we can repair to increase the product’s lifespan, we will.

At QT Melbourne, the client demonstrated a sophisticated understanding of the venue’s guests, understanding that their tastes align with sustainable values and aesthetics. Our sustainable design and manufacturing practices helped the client deliver a memorable and on-brand experience that prioritises repair, reduces waste and extends longevity – fully embracing the ethos of ‘choose well, buy once’.

 

Download our Sustainability Statement
Published 12 June 2024
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