Description

In the heart of Melbourne, Diadem’s studio resides within Aldersgate House, a character-rich building recognised by the National Trust of Australia for its place in the city’s architectural narrative. Its bones tell a story of industrious beginnings—solid craftsmanship, generous proportions, enduring materials—now thoughtfully reimagined for contemporary creative life.

Heritage textures and original structural elements remain proudly visible, softened by natural light and purposeful adaptation that has transformed the space into an open, welcoming studio.

Within these walls, past and future sit comfortably together. The studio functions as a living laboratory for wayfinding and experiential environments. Material libraries line textured surfaces; prototype signage and digital modelling tools inhabit spaces once shaped by industry. It is a quiet demonstration of how historic buildings can evolve, supporting progressive, sustainable practice without losing their soul.

Through its public program, Diadem opens the studio doors to reveal how design shapes the experience of everyday life. From hospitals and transport interchanges to civic and cultural precincts, visitors trace the journey from research, strategy and conception to fabrication and implementation. The experience reveals something often unseen: how thoughtful design fosters clarity, confidence and dignity, helping cities care for the people who move through them.

What's On

Step inside a working design studio to explore how wayfinding shapes cities, including Melbourne. Guided tours led by Diadem’s designers and directors will unpack live projects, research methods and material experimentation.
Guests can move through interactive stations; from concept sketches and strategy mapping to full-scale signage prototypes and fabrication samples.
Visitors will learn how thoughtful design supports dignity and independence in public space, and gain rare behind-the-scenes insight into the invisible systems that help cities care for people.

Children's Activities

Fun, creative activity for adults and kids alike to enjoy and take home that will stir the imagination.
This is a simple intro to design and visual communication.