Behind the Design: How I Curated a Century of Secrets at the LSC Locksmith Museum
Have you ever walked into a space and felt like the walls were trying to tell you a secret?
When I was approached by LSC—a leader in the Australian locksmithing industry—to design a museum for their 100th anniversary in 2026, I knew this wasn’t just a standard commercial fit-out. This was a special, unique project. In fact the locksmithing museum would be the first of its kind in Australia. They needed their allocated space in a North Melbourne warehouse to function as a professional corporate hospitality hub, but also act as a living archive for a century of history.
As an interior designer and curator, my goal is to make design approachable and meaningful. For this project, that meant bridging the gap between a “tactile profession” and a high-end corporate hospitality experience.
The Brief: From Armaguard Stronghold to Industry Showpiece
The site at 140-158 Dryburgh St has its own history as an old Armaguard site—the perfect “bones” for a museum about security. The brief was unique: 2/3 museum and 1/3 corporate “dry bar.”
My challenge for this museum design was to create a flow that feels “important but not precious.” We didn’t want a “fuddy-duddy” space with rows of dusty glass cabinets. Instead we wanted gravitas. A space that felt humble yet sophisticated—a place where a locksmith could enjoy a drink while surrounded by the evolution of their craft.
Designing for the “Solve-it” Mindset
Locksmiths are a unique crowd. They like to solve puzzles; they know all the secrets. To appeal to this mindset, I leant into the concept of “Organised Chaos.” In the curation phase, we looked at everything from vintage key-cutting machines and timber crates to delicate historical ledger books. Instead of hiding these behind glass, we treated them as art. By curating these “naked keys” and industrial objects into specific zones, we created a journey of discovery. For a commercial business owner, this is a masterclass in branding: your history isn’t just “old stuff”—it’s your social proof.
Merging Mid-Century Modern with Industrial Grit
The architecture of the North Melbourne site screamed Mid-Century Modern (MCM). We embraced this by layering industrial materials—think raw metals and exposed structures—with the warmth of MCM hospitality design.
In the hospitality section, we designed a “dry bar” area meant for monthly gatherings of trade professionals. The design had to be functional enough for a group of 20 but warm enough to feel like a destination. By using light and strategic “interactive” zones (where visitors can actually touch and interact with the locks), we ensured the space felt alive, not stagnant.
Why Curation Matters for Your Hospitality Space
As a hospitality venue, your space is your most powerful marketing tool. This project is a “smash hit” example of how interior design and curation go hand-in-hand.
At Grace Interior Designs, we don’t just pick out paint colours; we collaborate with you to tell your story. I collaborate with clients to add strategic value, ensuring that every design choice supports your business vision. It’s a real team effort.
Let’s Create Your Story
Are you looking for an exhibition designer who understands the balance between “museum-grade” curation and commercial functionality? Or perhaps you’re a hospitality business owner in Melbourne looking to breathe new life into a heritage space?
I’d love to help you bring your vision to life with a personal touch and a design that truly reflects who you are.
The Deal: I’m currently offering a dedicated consultation session for new commercial and exhibition projects. Let’s sit down, look at your “organised chaos,” and turn it into a beautiful, functional space.