UWA Energy + Minerals Institute

The University of Western Australia (UWA) - Energy and Minerals Institute engaged MKDC in the design and implementation of their new Perth office.

MKDC were presented with the challenge of designing within the stringent parameters of the heritage listed building, located on St. Georges Terrace. As a key feature of the design, MKDC elected to leave the 4m high ceiling and building services exposed. 

Timeless finishes, including jarrah and marble, were chosen for the reception and adjacent board rooms, in order to complement the existing heritage attributes of the building and align with the aesthetic values of the UWA Crawley campus. MKDC have created a dynamic space, as operable walls allow the client to manipulate the size of the boardroom, or open it up altogether. 

A contemporary palette was selected for the open plan workstations, creating an interesting contrast from the front of house space. MKDC have successfully integrated the functional needs of the client without impinging on the heritage building. 

To see more MKDC projects, please CLICK HERE 

Blog post by: Kath Kusinski, MKDC Director

MKDC Directors Win Prestigious Construction Award

MKDC Workspace Designers Directors, Kathy Kusinski and Melanie Marshall are proud winners of the Crystal Vision Award at the recent National Association of Women in Construction event for their efforts to involve more women in the construction industry.

MKDC, established 21 years ago, employs 12 women and has contributed more than $50 million worth of contracts to the WA construction industry over the past two years. 

The Crystal Vision Awards are held annually to recognise and celebrate the top achievements of women in the construction industry.

"Often Interior Design is seen as colour solutions and nice fabrics. Nothing is further from the truth - we are about managing million dollar projects, meeting deadlines, working closely with consultants and builders to achieve great office interiors for our clients. This award is testament to what we really do working in the construction industry" said Melanie Marshall.

"When we started our business 21 years ago we were ambitious and wanted to be leaders in our field. Winning the NAWIC Crystal Vision Award is recognition of the hard work that has gone into developing MKDC into one of WA's great design studios" said Kath Kusinski.

"It is such a great honour to be recognised for advancing the careers of women in the construction industry." Kath Kusinski.

A panel of industry experts selected winners based on strict award criteria. To view the full list of winners of the 2013 NAWIC Awards of Excellence, please click HERE.

Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, T Block

With major development underway at QE2, the incumbent executive team required new office accommodation to make way for their existing premises to be redeveloped.

MKDC Workspace Designers were presented with the challenge to convert the Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital ‘T Block’, a disused painting workshop on the QE2 site. This opportunity was embraced by the design team who transformed the old space into a state of the art, technology focused and flexible office environment.

New facilities were required, including the installation of male and female toilets and showers, and an outdoor alfresco area leading off the new staff hub.

The MKDC team were eager to meet the needs of the client, without impairing the existing building structure. By invigorating the high ceilings and leaving the services exposed, MKDC have created a fresh and stimulating working environment. The client is delighted with this new working environment designed and project managed by MKDC.

Blog post by Kath Kusinski, Director MKDC Workspace Designers

Murdoch University Kim E. Beazley Lecture Theatre

MKDC were appointed by Murdoch University to reinvigorate the Kim E. Beazley Lecture Theatre and foyer. Murdoch University required a new space that would more adequately reflect their identity as a modern educational institution and promote their status as a world class facility. 
Communication and program management were important aspects of the design process, as the space had to be ready for the start of the semester in order to welcome a new intake of students and staff. 

Important to the client, were the longevity of the space and the incorporation of Murdoch University branding in the design. MKDC embraced the universities signature ‘red’ making it a feature colour throughout.

The neutral finishes used in the foyer, including timber panelling, are offset by striking red carpet tiles. This red is carried through to the lecture theatre, where different shades have been used for the ‘pixelated effect’ seating upholstery - creating a sense of movement. 

The result is a timeless and sophisticated interior that enhances the experience of visitors to Murdoch University.

Blog by Kath Kusinski, Director MKDC Workspace Designers

CHRISTMAS GREETINGS FROM MKDC