2021-02-11
11 Feb 21

55 Pitt St International Design Excellence Competition Announced

Woods Bagot &  SHoP Architects are design partners on 55 Pitt Street – a landmark workplace precinct at 55 Pitt Street, Sydney, Australia.  

The scheme’s dramatic Pitt Street entry statement and distinctive soaring yet seductive tower inspired the design excellence jury – comprising experts from leading Developer Mirvac and council nominated jurors including NSW Government Architect, Abbie Galvin, SJB Director, Adam Haddow and President of the Australian Institute of Architects, Dr. Helen Lochhead – to name SHoP Architects & Woods Bagot as the successful entrant ahead of a strong field of local and international design studios.

“We are delighted to see our scheme selected for 55 Pitt Street. Our proposal brings to the forefront a next generation building centred around a sense of belonging and place dictated by guiding principles of Country, an activated sense of community connections, a workplace environment focusing on new return to work principles. It will be a performative, expressive and breathable tower,” said Woods Bagot CEO, Nik Karalis and SHoP NYC Partner, William Sharples, say 55 Pitt will be “a performative, expressive and breathable tower,” that will be “centred around a sense of belonging and place dictated by guiding principles of Country, an activated sense of community connections and new return to work principles.”

Mirvac Chief Investment Officer, Brett Draffen said the design was chosen because it responded carefully and creatively to Mirvac’s brief and vision for the project.

“55 Pitt Street is an exciting opportunity to create a sustainable and future focused premium grade workplace that respects and celebrates its place within the context of the Sydney CBD. The winning entry was outstanding and exceeded the jurors’ requirements, with the podium’s seamless integration into the urban landscape at ground level, as well as its ability to redefine the Sydney skyline.

“Prior to the time of early European settlement, the site formed part of the harbour shoreline. SHoP Architects and Woods Bagot weaved this fascinating history into their design for the lobby and entry hall, using cascading water features, lush landscaping and indigenous narratives.”

With frontages to Pitt, Underwood and Dalley Streets, 55 Pitt Street has the potential to deliver approximately 60,000 sqm of premium commercial and activated retail space as part of a vibrant new destination that will contribute towards the revitalisation of the iconic Circular Quay precinct.

The design prioritises the experience of its visitors and occupants throughout by providing flexibility, comfort and natural light, as well as the iconic views of Sydney Harbour. It will also use leading technology and sustainability principles alongside carefully curated amenities to actively promote health and wellbeing.

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