At Tzannes, I led the industrial design of Telstra’s next-generation Public Phone and Smart Hub—an integrated urban communications platform delivering a wide range of public services and community benefits.

In close collaboration with Telstra, JCDecaux and Deloitte, the concept was developed, tested, and fully prototyped. Our scope focused on the industrial design of the unit and the interactive interface. This incorporated multiple screens, cameras, audio, lighting, payment systems, and hands-free functionality, alongside additional hardware such as AED capability. The hub also supports free public Wi-Fi (via integrated antennas and supporting infrastructure) and device charging.

This project reimagines the traditional payphone as a future-focused Smart Public Hub—an adaptable, connected node that enhances urban life. It functions as a Smart City interface, enabling communication, environmental data collection (including air quality monitoring), and access to a wide range of digital services through an intuitive navigation portal for residents, commuters, and visitors.

The hub provides real-time emergency communication, wayfinding, and event information, contributing to safer and more connected public spaces. Security-by-design principles were embedded throughout, with a slim, unobtrusive form that maintains clear sightlines and supports integrated surveillance where required.

The design is inherently flexible and future-proofed, allowing for ongoing technological upgrades, including compatibility with emerging 5G networks.

In addition, we designed a new handset for free public phone use, developed in collaboration with a specialist manufacturer based in Spain. Two distinct exterior panel designs were explored, with a fully functional prototype developed and tested a the JCDecaux Design Centre in Paris.

Photography by Ben Guthrie, courtesy of Tzannes.