Ballet is synonymous with remarkable displays of delicacy and strength. Artistry and energy. Power and precision. Descriptions that all apply to the new  home of the Australian Ballet – one of the world’s premier companies.

Every space and every detail in their Melbourne headquarters – refurbished by HASSELL – celebrates the timeless beauty of ballet. At the same time, the nuanced facilities are hardworking and practical, recognising that what happens off stage is as important as what happens on it.

With everything from expansive studios and specialist medical facilities to a creative-arts workplace and public café where dance takes centre stage, this is the ideal base for a company with a 50-year heritage – and a magnificent future.

A high 'performance' workplace 

Our research into the inner workings of the ballet resulted in a design that makes day-to-day life easier for the company.

For example, a centralised white circular staircase connecting the two levels is wide enough for two dancers in tutus to pass each other without a costume disruption, while custom shelving and hooks keep both the long and short versions of the iconic garments in pristine condition.

Rehearsals can take place in a double-sized studio that’s true to the State Theatre, where the company regularly performs. There are also specialist medical facilities, including a world-class recovery room with an above-ground ice bath for rehabilitation.

Staff and dancers can cross paths in open-plan common areas and at workstations visible from public spaces. Frosted glass pavilions create intriguing silhouettes of movement through layers and openings while also protecting the privacy of the dancers.

Visual cues to a dancer’s tools

A glass storage room specifically designed for the troupe’s pointe shoes is located across from the café, where visitors get a striking visual reminder of the gruelling physical work and tour schedule of the dancers.

We also designed bespoke terrazzo flooring featuring pigments of a pink ballet shoe. Along with a subdued colour palette, the flooring forms the perfect backdrop for this lively, always-moving ballet company.

Project Details

Client Australian Ballet

Location Melbourne, Australia

Expertise Commercial and Workplace
Culture and the Arts

Scale 4000sqm

Status Completed

Year 2018

Imagery Lillie Thompson