A clever take on a South Melbourne pharmacy fitout project has been commended by judges at the 2014 Sustainability Awards, taking the honour for its exciting use of reclaimed materials.

Whites Dispensary by Studio Equator was awarded a commendation in the Small Commercial category which was won by Outpost 742709-9 by Drew Heath Architects.

The judges commended the Studio Equator retail fitout for its alternative look at retail design and its ‘more-with-less’ ethos.

“Whites Dispensary shows a bold and exciting direction in retail design using reclaimed materials, energy efficient fixtures and fittings, as well as gives careful and thoughtful consideration to storage, waste and doing more with less,” said the judges.

Studio Equator’s approach with Whites Dispensary’s sustainable design was to create a concept that would age gracefully and not date, thus extending the length of time the tenancy fit out can be maintained without requiring a re-fit.

Whites Dispensary had already been in business for many years, and the aim was for the new design and fit out to last many more years, in terms of both design and durability.

All these features ensure that Whites Dispensary is cutting edge and totally unique, and indeed the strong customised fit out is an integral part of the brand. 

Key initiatives:

  • Energy efficient lighting fixtures and fittings
  • Reclaimed materials used such as timber, concrete, shelving, counters, bulkheads and signage blades
  • Open plan space with smaller shelving space and no storage ensuring all products are on display and minimizing footprint
  • Recycled and carbon neutral paper stock used
  • Wastage system in place
  • More sustainable financial model with strategic branding and visual identity concept

Photography by Anne-Sophie Poirier

Click here for to see all the winners and commendations for 2014        

All the finalists can be viewed in the video below: