In Conversation with Studio Tate

Studio Tate has developed a strong reputation for creating highly considered spaces across residential, hospitality and workplace design. How would you describe the studio's overall design philosophy? 

At Studio Tate, we design spaces that feel authentic and deeply connected to the people who inhabit them. We approach every space through the lens of experience, considering how people live, work and play within an environment. Materiality, atmosphere and creative narrative are central to our process, alongside a strong understanding of our client's vision and commercial objectives, delivering environments that feel immersive and highly considered while still achieving functional, value-led outcomes. 

You recently reimagined Marshall White's Armadale office, transforming the space into a more elevated and contemporary environment. What was the vision behind the refurbishment, and how did you want people to feel within the space? 

The vision for Marshall White Armadale was to create a workplace that reflected the sophistication and discretion of the high-end residential market while still supporting the team’s operational needs. From the moment of arrival, we wanted the space to feel calm, welcoming and refined, balancing professionalism with a residential sensibility through natural materials, soft lighting and tactile finishes. Layered materiality and carefully considered detailing create a sense of quiet sophistication, while ensuring the space supports focus and day-to-day functionality. 

Workplace design has evolved significantly in recent years. What do you believe today's best offices need to offer beyond functionality? 

Today's workplaces need to offer far more than functionality alone. With greater flexibility around where people work, the office has become a destination rather than an obligation. We design workplaces that encourage people to come together, fostering connection and a genuine sense of experience, increasingly drawing from residential and hospitality environments. Thoughtful design also has a direct impact on wellbeing, productivity and company culture. When people feel connected to their environment, it benefits both the individual and the broader success of the business. 

How do you approach creating spaces that feel timeless while still responding to the way people live and work today? 

In workplace projects, particularly, there is a strong emphasis on durability and longevity. Materials need to perform well over time while reflecting the client's character and values, so we select honest materials, natural textures, and thoughtful detailing that withstand daily use while maintaining warmth and refinement. Establishing a strong creative narrative early gives the project a clear sense of purpose, ensuring the design feels cohesive and connected to place, which naturally lends a sense of longevity and timelessness. 

Looking ahead, what design directions, materials or lifestyle shifts are inspiring the studio most at the moment? 

There is a growing shift toward environments that feel more experience-led, emotionally responsive and grounded in human behaviour rather than aesthetics alone. Within workplace projects, greater emphasis is being placed on wellbeing, flexibility and connection, with a move toward spaces that feel welcoming, layered and human-centred. Sarah Decorsey from our residential team recently attended Milan Design Week and Salone del Mobile, where there was a continued focus on softer forms, integrated lighting and tactile materiality. As a studio, we are always interested in how these global influences can be thoughtfully translated for the Australian market in a way that feels authentic to the client, context and lifestyle. 

 LEARN MORE: https://www.studiotate.com.au/