Workspace: Furniture that stands the test of time

Creating spaces where everyday Aussies can work, learn, heal and connect - Workspace’s locally made furniture can be found in almost every area of Australian life.

What began in 1911 as a traditional furniture business has grown into one of Australia’s largest diversified commercial furniture manufacturers. For 115 years, Workspace has remained committed to local manufacturing and quality craftsmanship, and to innovating in product design, advanced manufacturing technologies, and sustainable production.

Today, Workspace partners with local architects, designers and builders to deliver complete solutions across the country, manufacturing individual pieces and developing designs for each project’s specific needs.

“Being a local manufacturer, we have greater control over quality and customisation,” said Amanda Timms, Workspace Marketing, Media & Events Coordinator. “We can respond quickly to changing project requirements, and we deliver tailored furniture solutions that imported products simply can’t match.”

“We've always believed that investing in local manufacturing supports Australian jobs and industry. That commitment continues to underpin everything we do today.”

Workspace’s investment in local manufacturing includes a 16,300 square metre production facility in South Australia, supported by showrooms and project teams across Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Canberra.

The company employs over 140 Australians around the country, forming a hardworking workforce that spans across manufacturing, design, engineering, logistics, installation and customer support.

The recently launched Workspace Circular Solutions is a furniture take-back and recovery program that extends the life of products through refurbishment, reuse and responsible recycling.

“We see the future of manufacturing as not only making great products but taking responsibility for what happens to them throughout their entire lifecycle,” said Amanda.

Sustainability is integrated into every stage of Workspace’s business, including an ISO 14001 Environmental Management certification and an ISO 14006 Eco Design certification. The company’s approach considers responsible material selection, efficient manufacturing processes, packaging improvements, freight carbon offset programs and designing products for longevity.

You may have come across Workspace’s furniture without even knowing it! The locally manufactured products can be found in many Australian workplaces, schools, hospitals and healthcare facilities, hospitality venues, government projects and more.

“Furniture has a real effect on how people feel, perform and interact within a space,” said Amanda. “Whether someone is learning in a classroom, recovering in a hospital, collaborating in an office or relaxing in a hospitality venue, thoughtfully designed furniture improves comfort, wellbeing and productivity.”

“Knowing our products help shape these everyday experiences across Australia is something we're incredibly proud of.”

Certified to carry the Australian Made logo since 2018, Workspace champions the many benefits of being a local manufacturer.

“For Workspace, the Australian Made logo represents authenticity, quality and our long-standing commitment to local manufacturing. For our customers, it provides confidence that they're investing in products manufactured to Australian standards by a business that supports local jobs, skills and industry,” said Amanda.

“Australian manufacturers also have a strong reputation for solving complex project challenges, delivering customised solutions and standing behind their products with ongoing service and support.”

This reputation extends beyond Australia itself, with Workspace seeing success overseas as well, Amanda explained. “In export markets, Australian manufacturing is often associated with high quality, strong environmental standards, innovative design and dependable manufacturing practices.

“Australia has earned a reputation for producing products that are built to last, and that reputation is highly valued internationally.”

With over a century of creating chairs, tables, lounges, desks and more, the team at Workspace have seen for themselves the flow-on effects of choosing Australian Made products.

“Choosing Australian Made products helps sustain local manufacturing, protects skilled jobs and apprenticeships, strengthens supply chain resilience and supports local communities, said Amanda.

“Every Australian Made purchase contributes to the long-term strength of Australian industry.”

Whilst reaching 115 years in business is an important milestone, the company sees it as the beginning of a next chapter, rather than a celebration of the past.

“The furniture industry is evolving rapidly, particularly around sustainability and circularity. We're committed to continuing our investment in Australian manufacturing, innovation and environmental responsibility so we can continue supporting Australian organisations for generations to come,” said Amanda.

For Workspace, the vision is simple: to keep designing, manufacturing and delivering furniture that not only performs exceptionally today, but contributes to a more sustainable future for tomorrow.