The commercial public fit-out of The Portico, located at No. 1 Martin Place involved the renovation of the mezzanine area of the office building to create a semi-public front-of-house space. Partridge was responsible for designing and implementing the primary structural element, a striking feature steel spiral staircase that serves as the entry point for the public. We also contributed to the project by designing the secondary structural element, a vaulted ceiling constructed using a plywood frame and visually appealing hanging timber dowels that create an undulating effect.

The refurbishment project included the expansion to the mezzanine office floor, terrace, and rooftop area. Partridge was bought on board to reinforce the existing timber beams with steel beams, a task that involved designing complex connections due to the misalignment of the timber. Additionally, we were responsible for designing steel stairs that are suspended from the existing timber structure, as well as new steel frames for glass entry doors, awnings, and a lift shaft.