Yarra Ranges Council Civic Centre

Project: Yarra Ranges Council Civic Centre
Practice: H2o Architects
Location: Lilydale, Victoria
Planex products: xLocker2 System, Linea Sliding Door Cabinet and Hardware Storage Box
Lock technology: Gantner smart lock

H2o Architects recently completed the Yarra Ranges Council Civic Centre located in Anderson St Lilydale. The project was staged over 2019 – 2022 and has only recently become fully operational due to covid restrictions and return-to-work policies.

As one approaches the Civic Centre you are greeted with an acknowledgement of country cast into the foundation of the building with the exterior contoured ochred concrete slabs soaring high into the sky, it really does feel like a building that has come from the land.

The Council made the decision to update its facilities to meet the needs of the community and employees including disability access and building infrastructure which in many instances was over 50 years old. The interior comprises public areas, council chambers and activity-based workspaces providing a greater opportunity for integration and collaboration across departments.

The xLocker2 System was designed to meet the specific needs of the council. The lockers were mounted on top of deep drawers or open bases making access to personal lockers easily accessible and ergonomic. The colours selected complimented the interior palette providing a fresh contrast to the timber detailing within the building. Gantner’s locking system allows all employees access so workers can select a locker that is closest to where they may be working within the building.

Photography by Chris Matterson