We acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples of this nation as the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which our company is located and where we conduct our business. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging. Bates Smart is committed to honouring Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ unique cultural and spiritual relationships to the land, waters and seas and their rich contribution to society.

Innovative timber technology achieves new heights

55 Southbank Boulevard

The adaptive reuse of 55 Southbank Boulevard is Australia’s first cross-laminated timber extension project and the world’s tallest mass timber vertical extension.

The Adina Hotel is situated within the innovative adaptive reuse project 55 Southbank Boulevard. Located close to the CBD, St Kilda Road, and the Royal Botanical Gardens, the hotel capitalises on the premium location.

Rather than simply echoing the spandrel banding of the prevailing building, the new addition responds with a series of large and small recesses which complements the original but delivers a more elegant and dynamic façade expression.

The standout feature of the design is the large, recessed balcony which helps to celebrate the corner and the building’s new height, but also importantly allows for an outdoor space where guests can enjoy panoramic views of the nearby parkland and city skyline.

Internally, the design was inspired by the building’s architecture. The ground-floor lobby is lined with timber aligning with the new method of construction, providing spaces with a warm and welcoming ambience. Curved walls also distinguish the space and work in accordance with the curved façade and sinuous lines of the new extension.

 

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Julian Anderson

Director, Bates Smart

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Details

Client

Hume Partners Property

Location

Melbourne | Wurundjeri and Bunurong Country, Australia

Year

2020

Status

Completed

Area

27,000 sqm

Sustainability

  • Forest Stewardship Council certified timber

Awards

  • CTBUH Award of Excellence, Winner Renovation Award 2022

Photography

Peter Clarke, Bison United