In a bold move that defies corporate convention, a prominent Perth insurance firm has installed a fully equipped secret bar concealed within its main boardroom on St George's Terrace.
A Discreet Entrance to a Luxurious Space
The hidden bar at Knightcorp's headquarters, designed by Spaceful's senior designer Vanessa Stapleton, features two completely concealed entry points. One access method involves a cleverly hidden swipe mechanism within a drawer.
"Once activated, a section of the wall quietly pops open behind you," Ms Stapleton revealed.
The secondary entrance from the office cafe is even more discreet, with swipe access hidden behind a coloured plaster panel that blends perfectly into the wall. Once inside, guests discover an opulent space finished with marble, timber, and ambient lighting, creating an ideal setting for client entertainment or team celebrations.
More Than Just a Bar: A Brand Statement
According to the design team, this innovative feature represents much more than a place to unwind. It serves as a physical expression of Knightcorp's bold mindset and playful corporate culture.
"Knightcorp wanted a workplace that would wow clients and challenge expectations of what an insurance office could be," Ms Stapleton explained. "The hidden bar was a bold expression of that vision, a space designed for connection and celebration, concealed behind the boardroom wall to surprise and delight guests."
The secret bar formed part of a recent office refurbishment following Knightcorp's relocation and expansion within 197 St Georges Terrace. The company significantly increased its footprint from 658 square metres to 858 square metres during this move.
Breaking the Corporate Mold with Colour and Design
The entire office design reflects Knightcorp's desire to distance itself from traditional insurance firm aesthetics. The space features a bold use of colour, including striking shades of green, black, and pink throughout the workplace.
"Across the industry, we're seeing workplace design move away from the safe, all-white aesthetic toward more expressive, character-driven spaces," Ms Stapleton noted.
She added that colour is increasingly being introduced in breakout zones and social areas, giving employees dedicated spaces to step away from their daily work routines. For Knightcorp, this energetic design philosophy extends consistently from the front counter right through to the hidden back bar, creating a cohesive and memorable workplace environment that truly stands out on Perth's premier corporate strip.
