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Bold colours and curved shapes bring a new dimension to this council office, which dates back to the middle of the last century. The colours are by Resene.

Improving customer service is a priority for councils everywhere today, including the Toowoomba Regional Council, which recently merged seven shire councils.

The original building that is now home to the new Toowoomba Council Customer Service Centre dates back to the middle of the last century. Because the building was still in its original state when the council took it over, it required an extensive upgrade – the council didn’t want to lose its sense of history, however.

The solution, from Opus Architects and the interior design team from KDW Design West End, was to retain much of the original brickwork, but to modernise and enhance the texture of the brick with the innovative use of colour.

Curves and strong circular shapes were also introduced. These are highlighted by a variety of bold Resene colours on the walls, which echo the shapes created in the vinyl and modular carpet, and the colourful, curved workstation screens.

The Resene palette is one of contrasts. Resene Enamacryl gloss waterborne enamel tinted to Resene Triple Dune, a charcoal-brown shade, features on doors, while the ceilings are in Resene Ceiling Flat White. Walls are finished in Resene Half Sea Fog, a black-edged white; Resene Triple Dune; Resene Hullabaloo, a bright blue green; Resene Rendezvous; a garnet red; Resene Aviator, a deep dusk blue; and Resene Alibi, an alkaline green gold. The palette provides vibrant colour accents that are balanced by calm neutrals.

The creative colour selection and placement, along with innovative spatial planning, have ensured the building is set for many years of service.

The building contractor for this project was Hutchinson Builders.