Lifestyle brand Koskela launches flagship store at Sub Base Platypus

On Saturday, 19 March, Koskela launched its new flagship store at the former submarine base, torpedo factory and gasworks site, which is situated in Cammeraygal Country on Neutral Bay’s waterfront.

The two-level venue showcases Koskela’s distinctive furniture, which reflect their focus on natural materials and sustainable practices. It is also an opportunity for visitors to book in store consultations, see exhibitions by leading First Nations creators, and enjoy panoramic harbour views.

In the coming weeks, Koskela will unveil a permanent installation at their new premise – a collaboration with award-winning Koori artist Blak Douglas. Mr Douglas is a three-time Archibald finalist and has had works collected by the National Gallery of Australia, the National Museum of Australia, as well as internationally.

“Koskela's reputation for ethical and sustainable design, and commitment to supporting First Nations creators made them a natural fit for the Harbour Trust,” said Harbour Trust Executive Director Janet Carding

“Sub Base Platypus is growing into a vibrant community, and this latest collaboration will help to breathe new life into this former maritime base in an innovative and commercially sensitive manner.”

About Sub Base Platypus

Sub Base Platypus is a former gasworks (1876-1932), torpedo factory (1942-1999) and submarine base (1967-1999). In 2005, the site was handed to the Harbour Trust by the Commonwealth Government. The agency was tasked with rehabilitating and remediating the site to enable public access. Following years of renewal works and community consultation, Sub Base Platypus was officially opened in May 2018. 

The Harbour Trust has collaborated with lahznimmo architects and ASPECT Studios on renewal works at Sub Base Platypus. The adaptive reuse of heritage structures and the transformation of the site’s urban design received multiple accolades in 2021. The Harbour Trust envisions Sub Base Platypus as a contemporary place for the community where historic spaces are revealed, reimagined, and activated.

• The Design Files, 23 March 2022 - 'See Koskela's New Concept Store + HQ Inside A Former Submarine Base'
• Australian Financial Review, 23 March 2022 - 'Welcome to Koskela’s new harbourfront HQ'
• Broadsheet, 22 March 2022 - 'A Former Torpedo Factory and Submarine Base in North Sydney is the New Home of Lifestyle Brand Koskela'
• Daily Architecture News, 8 April 2022 - 'Koskela store opens in North Sydney’s Sub Base Platypus'