MTS Watch Repairs
A Masterpiece of Industrial Design
Located at 26 Coromandel Place in Melbourne’s bustling CBD, MTS Watch Repairs stands as a testament to bespoke retail and office design. The project’s 180m² space required a meticulous and highly technical approach to accommodate the specific functions of a high-end watch repair workshop. With an 8m shopfront, the design was carefully considered to meet the client’s unique needs, including strict security protocols, a dust-free environment for delicate work, and the safe disposal of hazardous chemicals. Every detail was taken into account to ensure the space was both functional and secure for MTS Watch Repairs.
Type
Retail & Office Design
Location
26 Coromandel Place Melbourne VIC
Size
180m2
Functionality at the Heart of the Space
The space program for MTS Watch Repairs was carefully divided to support its dual purpose. The FOH (Front of House) area features a welcoming reception desk and displays, while the BOH (Back of House) is a highly technical zone. This includes dedicated offices, a staff room, a professional meeting boardroom, a specialized watchmaker’s room, and a polishing room. The design seamlessly integrates these functions, ensuring a smooth operational flow and a clear separation between client-facing and technical areas.
Studio PFA’s Comprehensive Role
Studio PFA provided full architectural services for MTS Watch Repairs, steering the project from concept to completion. Our team handled the initial design and development, secured landlord and planning approvals—including a specific permit for a crucial neon sign—and ensured building compliance, such as the accessible bathroom amenities. We also managed the tender documentation, coordinated the tender process, and provided contract administration throughout and after construction. A key part of our role was developing the brand’s logo and design, which was used for the striking neon sign.
Laneway Visibility and Industrial Aesthetics
A primary design requirement from the client was to ensure the shop was highly visible from the laneway. Studio PFA addressed this challenge with a powerful industrial-themed design and a custom neon sign. The aesthetic is defined by key elements such as a polished concrete floor, concrete block walls, and an open security roller grille, creating an edgy, modern look. The neon sign, prominently placed at the end of the laneway, ensures the business is easily seen by passing foot traffic.
Bespoke Details Define the Experience
The industrial theme extends down to the projects joinery including a custom-designed reception desk. Keeping in line with the rugged, industrial style, the desk was constructed from a black melamine plywood carcass on industrial castor wheels for flexibility. The front face is made of double sheets of raw compressed fiber cement, with the MTS Watch Repairs logo CNC-routed to create a discrete, embossed look. This subtle yet sophisticated detail perfectly encapsulates the project’s blend of functionality, brand identity, and industrial design.