MWH Melbourne

MWH is a technology provider in the water industry, focused on water infrastructure, business solutions, engineering and construction – and driven by a commitment to building a better world and improving communities globally.

Linear was engaged as lead design consultant for MWH’s move into 1,800 square metres at Freshwater Twenty8, tasked with creating a workplace that could flex with the business. The nature of MWH’s work means teams grow and contract regularly, and the planning needed to accommodate that reality without the space ever feeling underutilised or overcrowded. The solution is a large bench-style workstation system that allows individual capacity to expand and contract naturally as team sizes shift – a simple but highly effective response to a genuine operational challenge.

The design is based in MWH’s core values of teamwork, collaboration, integrity and social responsibility – and these values are visible throughout. The ‘Sleeves Rolled Up’ philosophy that defines the culture shaped every design decision: spaces are open, unfussy and built for getting things done. The reception sets the tone from arrival – informal, transparent and open to the working environment beyond, it blurs the boundary between client and staff areas. Glazing is maximised throughout to keep the energy of the office visible and the culture of openness tangible.

Materiality is chosen with both sustainability and authenticity in mind. Plywood, sisal and recycled timber bring warmth and texture to the palette, set against rich variations of green that ground the space in a connection to the natural environment. Finishes are hardwearing and honest – considered rather than opulent, and selected with a focus on sustainable products and initiatives throughout.