The sheer scale of the architectural steel and glass awning is impressive.
Overlooking the Hyde Park and with views to Sydney Harbour from the upper levels and terraces, 231 Elizabeth St is a prestigious 18 level Grade-A office building. Originally constructed in 1987, 231 Elizabeth has been the subject of an extensive and high quality base building upgrade. Undertaken by SHAPE Australia for the owners Charter Hall, the works were primarily for the benefit of their high level anchor tenant Property NSW.
The extensive refurbishments included the lobby, end-of-trip facilities, improved inter-floor connectivity and sky terraces with a focus on well-being and amenity. Every revamped level now boasts Green star ratings and the highest of specifications.
With much of the completed work only able to be appreciated once you are in the building, the hero, and the greatest visual architectural change to the building is definitely the main entry awning. The tired and dated entry awning has been removed and replaced with a beautiful new design by WMK Architecture. The sheer scale of this architectural steel and glass awning is impressive. The intricately detailed structural steel frame is significantly higher than the previous awning. Featuring full height, single panel glass sections and a glazed roof the new awning is exceptional. Not only does it improve the amenity of the area by reducing wind and increasing ambient light, but it increases the buildings presence on this prominent street corner. It clearly states that this building is now modern and cutting-edge!
Completed in record time.
Active Metal Pty Ltd were engaged to develop the design of the awning, taking it from concept to creation. A challenging construction project in its own right, this awning was successfully completed in record time. From 3D surveys to expert drafting, to fabrication, through to meticulous project management, this architectural steel and glass awning is a testament to the multidisciplinary skill-set of the Active Metal team. Of specific note, the 7 metre high external glass panels were too large for any Australian glass plant. This required them to be manufactured overseas and freighted by sea. All the glass was perfectly sized and not one panel required replacement due to damage or poor design.
Dramatic lighting is also a feature of this awning though not part of Active’s contract – see Video.
Architect: WMK Architecture
Client: Charter Hall
Builder: SHAPE
Photographer: Matthew Lynch
Location: 231 Elizabeth St, Sydney
Work Completed by Active Metal
Structural steel awning frame, awning glazing, wall glazing, structure cladding, roof access ladder, column cladding, stainless steel guttering and flashing, paint finishing
