11
Left and Above An artful blend of tradition
and modernity with the reinstatement and
enhancement of the original void with
contemporary materials and technology.
A triumph of the illuminated workplace.
Vision’s Peter Hyatt discusses the crafting of new around
old with project architects Mat Howard of JPW and
Megan Jones of TKD:
PH
What did taking on this building represent?
The quality of the heritage building presented
exciting opportunities for the new development.
The scale and spatial proportions, as well as the detail
and craftsmanship embodied within the existing fabric
were a source of inspiration for the new work, as well
as the considered approach to reinstatement and
reinterpretation of original features. There was a real sense
within the design team that we are custodians of a very
significant piece of Australia’s history, and considered it
a privilege to be involved in its restoration and its future.
MH
PH Was
there resistance from the client group
to the loss of floor-space?
MH The reinstatement of the central atrium to the
heritage building, provides extensive natural light to
the large contiguous floor plates within the development,
and in turn, presented opportunities for the creation
of a vibrant, contemporary workplace. The vision to
realise these opportunities was certainly shared by
the client group.
MJ It’s fair to say that by removing floor we improved
the functionality and amenity of the floor plate. The other
point to bear in mind is that we’ve actually maxed out the
building floor space. What we lost in the atrium, we made
up for in the tower so that there is no net loss.
PH
Are
there any disadvantages or issues caused
by so much natural light?
MH There are energy efficiency and temperature
control issues to consider, and so glass selection becomes
important as a means in achieving a balance between light,
comfort and energy demands.
You certainly haven’t kept a shell or building façade here.
There’s a much deeper context and relationship occurring.
MJ Absolutely. Probably the greatest achievement is the
re-presentation of the building as a contemporary office,
a century after it was built. It was one of Australia’s first
steel framed commercial buildings. When it was opened