Concierge Desks at Anzac Park East

April 2026

The new Anzac Park East precinct has recently opened, and we were engaged to design and build two concierge desks. One sits within the commercial mixed-use building, the other in the Eastbourne apartments, with both sharing a consistent design language and overall form.

The concierge desk at Eastbourne Apartments

Referencing a Landmark Site

The developers, Amalgamated Property Group commissioned the desks as art pieces, to commemorate the legacy of the original Anzac East building, a Commonwealth heritage listed site.

Designed by Richard Ure, and completed in 1965, the Anzac East and West buildings were part of a broader vision to frame the view from Mount Ainslie to Parliament House, an idea central to Walter Burley Griffin’s plan for Canberra. After sitting vacant for more than 20 years, the original Anzac East building was eventually demolished to make way for the new development.

Translating Architecture into Joinery

That history became the foundation for the design. The dark frame and panels of the concierge desks reflect the exterior facade of the original Anzac East building, particularly the vertical rows of windows. Pillar elements in a lighter timber were incorporated to reference the building’s concrete columns, creating a direct visual connection to the original building design. Each desk then took over 100 hours to craft, utilising timber recycled from Canberra houses built in the 1960s. The result is a contemporary piece inspired by the rhythm and proportions of the former façade.

The facade of the old Anzac East building was used as the design inspiration.

Material Selection and Contrast

Material selection played a key role in reinforcing that connection. We used a combination of recycled Blackbutt and Bluegum, pairing lighter and darker timbers to mirror the contrast of the original building’s exterior.

Scale, Detail and Function

Both desks share a similar footprint, measuring approximately three metres in length, with one incorporating an electronic sit and stand function. The desktops feature a mitred apron edge, creating the appearance of a thicker benchtop through a precise 45 degree join and a subtle overhang. This detail gives the concierge desks a solid, grounded presence without unnecessary bulk.

Designed for Installation

Given their size and weight, the concierge desks were designed to be flat packed for transport and installation. The column elements were constructed as lightweight box sections to reduce overall weight while maintaining the intended visual form. A raised counter section was added to create a clear point for visitor interaction, making the desk suitable for concierge and reception use.

Pergola Collaboration

While on site, we also saw the final stages of a pergola installation for the common area. This element was delivered in collaboration with Hardwood Projects, who handled installation while we supplied the recycled timber, docked and drilled ready for assembly. The structure features recycled Spotted Gum posts, wirebrushed for durability and ease of maintenance. Unlike dressed finishes, which can require sanding before re-oiling, the wirebrushed surface can be maintained with a simple annual recoat of Osmo oil.

A Clear Vision, Well Executed

This project came together through a clear and considered design direction, carried from concept through to execution by our design and joinery teams. If you are planning a reception desk or commercial joinery piece, our team can work with you to develop a solution that reflects both function and story. Contact us today to discuss your next project.

Photography by Bianca Knox