Woods Bagot’s StandardX and Melbourne Quarter Tower (MQT) were shortlisted for the Commercial Architecture Award. The projects were selected from a total of 384 submissions across 15 categories in 2025’s prestigious Victorian Architecture Awards.
Presented by the Australian Institute of Architects, the Commercial Architecture category recognises excellence in the design of commercial buildings—offices, retail spaces, hotels and more—that demonstrate innovation, high-quality delivery and lasting impact on the built environment.
The Standard’s first foray into Australia see’s one of the world’s funnest hotel chains unleash in Fitzroy.
The StandardX is a bold new hotel in the heart of Fitzroy that was designed to be distinctly of its place. “We designed [the StandardX] to be local—to continue the architectural traditions of Fitzroy and sustain the neighbourhood’s artistic and cultural spirit,” said Woods Bagot Director Peter Miglis.
“The StandardX is our response to the changing expectations of travellers, people looking for a deeper connection to place. We embraced Fitzroy’s industrial character and creative spirit, using robust materials like Corten steel to create a building that feels grounded in the neighbourhood. It’s more than a hotel; it’s a local landmark, designed to invite people in and reflect the energy of the streets around it.”
The 125-room venue is anchored by generous shared spaces—a bodega, rooftop bar, restaurant and a welcoming, hospitality-led lobby—all designed to connect visitors with the neighbourhood’s creative and cultural fabric.
“The StandardX offers a unique corner statement that completes the cultural heart of one of Melbourne’s most vibrant, eclectic neighbourhoods. The building positively contributes to the local identity, while enhanced public realm helps to connect with Brunswick Street, Rose Street Markets, and surrounding restaurants, boutiques and independent galleries. The building responds to a demand for short-stay residences in city-fringe suburbs, demonstrable by the rise of Airbnb in Fitzroy. With emphasis on hospitality, the building invites residents and the wider community to gather, to meet, eat, work, and simply be together through communal areas like the generous lobby, rooftop and retail spaces.”
Melbourne Quarter Tower (MQT) is a 34-story office building that completes the Melbourne Quarter precinct with a distinctive presence. “Located on the crest of Collins Street West and straddling Wurundjeri Way, Melbourne Quarter Tower (MQT) realises one of the key urban objectives of the masterplan, tying together the built form along Collins Street, connecting the CBD and Docklands,” explains Hazel Porter, Principal, Woods Bagot.
“From crown to ground plane, the tower is designed to contribute to the city at every scale. Maximising the volumetric titles, the tower rises directly over the freeway, returning valuable inner-city space back to the public. At ground level, the lobby offers a generous arrival experience with lofty ceilings, soft-geometry planters, and spaces for both social connection and quiet focus.”
Melbourne Quarter Precinct itself comprises three commercial towers, two residential apartment towers, a mixed-use building, and a diverse mix of retail. Woods Bagot’s design combines form, unique facade articulation and materiality.
The project is also a prime example of a technically advanced design process, with Associate Principal David Christie explaining, “MQT’s distinctive twisting roof and ceiling are the result of a collaborative effort within an integrated digital environment. Modelling all parts in 3D enabled a seamless transition from design to the precise fabrication of steelwork and cladding modules.”
Global architecture studio Woods Bagot is playing a key role in the design and development of Melbourne Quarter by Lendlease through the delivery of key infrastructure and urban master-planning.
“Woods Bagot was tasked by Lendlease with creating a sustainable building that prioritised exceptional design while maximising the unparalleled city views that envelop the site. And they exceeded expectations. From the striking curved profile of the upper levels (now a prominent feature of the iconic CBD skyline), to the expansive use of sandstone in the lobby creating a grand sense of arrival, the exceptionally unique identity achieved for Melbourne Quarter Tower is a testament to their success. As our trusted project partner, the team at Woods Bagot designed not only an impressive 34-storey building, but a workplace of the future, demonstrating global leadership in sustainability and wellness targets.”
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15 Jan 24