One of seven concept stores globally, Mercedes me occupies a prominent position in an area of the city currently undergoing extensive regeneration. Part of an extensive Rialto redevelopment, the design provides a focal point for the surrounding precinct. 

A primary driver was to create a space to showcase Mercedes-Benz’s active role in Melbourne’s cultural landscape through its support of festivals and events. It was also to provide a platform for engaging with Melbourne’s thriving artisan community.

Embracing versatility on multiple levels, the design unfolds in a sequence of spaces that vary in size and character, each transitioning seamlessly from daytime cafe and meeting place to evening event space for parties and launches.

Featuring a palette of leather, limestone, polished concrete, timber and steel framework, the design draws its inspiration from the Mercedes-Benz factories of the 1930-40s, particularly their fine steel­work.

The gesture of the frame became the driving force behind the design, an element to wrap around and unify the space: the frame becomes the balustrade, the lighting frame and so on. From day into night, a curtain wraps around the inner framed volume and transforms it into a stage, the centrepiece of which is the car.

Awards:

AIA Victorian Architecture Awards: Commercial Architecture
2018

Shaw Carpets Awards: Global Hospitality
2018

Country:

Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung

Year:

2017

Status:

Completed

Client:

Mercedes-Benz Australia

Partners:

ST. ALi

Consultants:

PoV WGE

Builder:

Harris HMC

Photography:

Peter Clarke