MUFG’s Sydney headquarters at Liberty Place reimagines the financial workplace. Designed by our Workplace team, the two-level office blends Japanese minimalism, Australian warmth, and First Nations storytelling. The result is a refined, sustainable environment that supports collaboration, focus, and cultural connection while projecting a confident global identity.
A design narrative of Foundation + Evolution
The brief called for a workplace that would project global stature while preserving operational familiarity during a period of transformation. Our guiding concept, Foundation + Evolution, carried forward established spatial planning, timber tones, and ceiling gestures from earlier fit-outs, now refined with cleaner lines, richer materiality, and brand-aligned detailing. The result is a workplace that feels unmistakably new yet authentically MUFG.
A cultural bridge for a global brand
The design rejects the rigid front-of-house/back-of-house model typical of financial workplaces. Instead, all areas are accessible, inviting staff to use the entire office fluidly. A central breakout hub doubles as a social anchor and overflow workspace, offering panoramic harbour views and a hospitality-grade coffee bar.
Cultural storytelling is embedded throughout. Wiradjuri artist Lani Balzan’s commissioned works, including her signature Paths of Connection piece, anchor the central stair and extend into wayfinding and privacy films. Japanese minimalism is expressed through gridded joinery and clean detailing, balanced with Australian warmth in timber tones and crafted finishes.
Responding to the challenge with continuity
Evolving a global identity without alienating staff was a central challenge. We balanced refinement with familiarity, ensuring staff could feel at home while recognising the space as a confident step forward. Vertical cohesion across two levels was achieved through recurring ceiling gestures, material warmth, and brand-aligned detailing. Every decision reinforced trust, transparency, and adaptability.
Sustainability through longevity
Design longevity was the project’s primary environmental strategy. Durable, locally sourced materials, including Crystos quartzite and sustainably certified timbers, were chosen for low maintenance and reduced embodied carbon. Furniture was repurposed where possible, reducing waste and extending value.
Energy-efficient lighting, natural daylight penetration, and adaptable layouts lower operational impact while ensuring the fitout remains relevant for years. Cultural sustainability is embedded through commissioning Australian creative talent, weaving identity and place into the design.
A trusted design partnership
MUFG’s Sydney headquarters is the latest in a seven-project, seven-year collaboration between GroupGSA and the global financial institution. The workplace exemplifies how brand evolution, cultural authenticity, and sustainability can be integrated into a refined, human-centred environment that supports high performance and long-term value.
As an Associate Principal, Jessica is an interior designer dedicated to designing and delivering creative spaces that elevate cultural and brand experiences for her clients. Jessica consistently delivers dynamic, impactful, inspiring environments, showcasing her unwavering dedication to excellence and client success.
