Microsoft HQ - Illuminated Staircase

Located within 1 Denison Street, Microsoft’s Australian headquarters redefines the conventional workplace, delivering a highly connected, technology-driven environment that prioritises flexibility, experience and performance. Spanning approximately 10,000 sqm across seven levels, the workplace consolidates Microsoft’s former CBD offices into a single, integrated hub for over 1,400 employees. Designed to support hybrid working, the space leverages intelligent building systems, advanced occupancy sensing and seamless integration with Microsoft platforms to enable agile, data-informed use of the environment.

At the centre of the project is a feature stair that acts as both a physical and digital spine, connecting all levels of the tenancy. Wrapped in Corian® and embedded with a large-format, pixelated lighting installation, the stair operates as a programmable “canvas” integrated into the building fabric.

The installation was conceived not simply as a visual feature, but as an interactive system—capable of responding to user movement, environmental conditions and curated digital content. A key aspect of the design involved developing a coordinated control and content strategy, ensuring the system remains adaptable, relevant and easy to update over time. This approach allows the lighting to shift in intensity and colour based on occupancy, reflect external conditions such as weather and support programmed themes or events—transforming the stair into a dynamic communication and engagement tool within the workplace.

From a technical standpoint, the project required careful integration of lighting, controls and architectural elements to ensure the feature was cohesive, maintainable and scalable. Early-stage modelling, option testing and cost planning informed the final solution, with a strong focus on aligning the feature with broader building systems and user experience objectives.

Beyond its visual impact, the installation reinforces connectivity across the workplace, encouraging movement, interaction and a shared sense of place. It also introduces an element of democratised content creation, enabling teams to contribute to and influence the environment over time. The result is a workplace that goes beyond functionality, using integrated technology and responsive design to create an engaging, future-focused environment that supports both productivity and experience.