About the Design, Structure and Architecture

The building has been designed as a three dimensional iconic sculpture with various layers and textures of glass facings. The intention is for a subtle building, which will sit harmoniously in its location and at the same time present a positive architectural contribution to the streetscape. The building set backs are similar to those adjoining, however the St Kilda Road facade in plan curves away at the sides and forms deep recesses to the side boundaries. The building is symmetrical in plan on all levels and is symmetrical in elevation. The symmetry is designed to give the building no front, back or side but rather a similar aesthetic when viewed from any direction.

Levels above 45m (Level 16) step inward from the lower building edges. This shift forces the perspective, creates a crown to the building capital, and more importantly does not alter the overall building language.

The facade treatment has many levels and combined with the adjustment of form emphasizes the buildings three dimensional quality. The first glazing layer is a lightly reflective charcoal glass extending from floor to ceiling. The glazing frames are also charcoal and contribute to the first layer of vertical fins. In addition to the vertical pattern the glazing line follows the building curves. It also steps back to form balconies and create shadowed recesses. It is intended as a contrast between the vertical and horizontal lines.

All concrete floor plates are screened by a continuous ribbon of concertina glass, which acts as balcony handrails, shading devices and generally provides the building with its second layer. The concertina glass, which in part is transparent but when viewed at a distance or obtusely creates a shimmering mesmeric effect. The glass panels are held off the face of the building by 600mm allowing filtered light to penetrate the building facade.

At the ground level the building skirt lifts up centrally with the ground floor glazing recessed so the building appears to float. The ground floor glazing is softly frosted coloured glass of various shades with the entry being clear. Nocturnally the building will be subtly lit on the face behind the shimmering glass ribbon. The building will also be up lit using patterned lighting devices to further extend the building character.