The Forum coworking space has debuted across nearly 30,000 square feet and two floors of office space in the Cremorne section of Melbourne. Designed by Foolscap Studio, the concept is the brainchild of developer Fortis and coworking operator The Commons, marrying sophisticated style with a network-driven approach with Millennial clientele in mind.
The design draws inspiration, of course, from traditional Roman forums and their legacy as grand social platforms for intellectual exchange. A tiered landscape of marbled cork heralds guests, while undulating steps compose a dynamic space reminiscent of a limestone auditorium. In addition to cork, travertine anchors the light, textural palette in which weighted materials like stone and timber support a clean, modern base. Linen adds layers of depth and warmth, while natural finishes imbue honesty and integrity. Architectural platforms are enriched with upholstered bench seating and robust furniture ideal for working and mingling. Traditional shaded colonnades are evoked in the foyer, which is flanked by columns half-wrapped in travertine beneath vaulting ceilings emanating a canopy of light.
A west-facing library occupies a concave room equipped with communal open desks, curtained reading nooks, and shelves filled with artifacts and tomes, while textural wood wool acoustic walls ensure auditory comfort and natural warmth. Terracotta walls, warm timber joinery, and custom sand ceramic wall sconces line the large kitchen as well. Desk spaces are outfitted with timber wall panels and handpainted wall sconces illuminating textured ochre carpeting and eucalyptus green acoustic dividers.
