Medibank Melbourne by Gray Puksand
Willie Weston’s Durrmu (LB) design by Leanne Black in ‘Geo’ features in Medibank Melbourne’s dynamic new workplace, designed by Gray Puksand. Photo: Tatjana Plitt.
Medibank’s Melbourne workplace, designed by Gray Puksand, is a dynamic environment that fosters collaboration, creativity, and exploration. While the organisation has successfully embraced an agile workplace for many years, insights from the pandemic and remote work experiences informed the creation of the destination workplace—where employees can share ideas, build meaningful connections, and focus.
Our Durrmu (LB) design, featuring artwork by Leanne Black, is thoughtfully integrated across contemporary upholstered seating and ottomans. Inspired by traditional body painting, Leanne's design forms part of a larger design narrative that draws from the significant natural landmarks surrounding the site and the key concept of wellness.
Medibank’s mission is to enhance the health of its customers and communities. Acknowledging the deep connection between nature and human well-being, the design captures the essence of its natural surroundings. Gray Puksand describes the city location and landmarks as ‘a compass’ for the design. The natural journey of water from the Yarra ranges to the Yarra Falls and through to Port Phillip Bay is referenced, with the theme of ‘life force’ also serving as inspiration—a powerful way to promote the concept of wellness.
The project was informed by visits to the Coranderrk Aboriginal Reserve, with guidance from Uncle David, a Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung elder. Artwork, fittings, and materials from First Nations artists and enterprises further deepen the connection to the land and community.
Durrmu (LB) represents traditional body painting designs applied to male and female faces and torsos for ceremonial dance. The design is also available in ‘Ripple’ and ‘Lotus’ colour ways in our commercial upholstery fabrics.
Leanne Black. Photo: Durrmu Arts.
Leanne Black is an emerging artist from Peppimenarti, working mainly in screen printing. Like many Peppimenarti artists, she references durrmu (body painting dot) designs in her work.
Leanne’s Durrmu (LB) design on ottomans in a break out area of the office. Photo: Tatjana Plitt.