New South Wales
The restricted site for the project was two disused and degraded industrial buildings, the Shelly Warehouse and the former Electrical Substation 164. The Machine Hall of the substation, although neglected offered the opportunity of a grand industrial volume connecting Clarence and Sussex Street.
A new curvilinear transparent form of layered glass and linear varied white ceramic frit has been carefully profiled in plan and section to give the impression of lightness and suspension above the heavy and articulate masonry facades of the heritage buildings. This form tampers back above the Substation through a significant cantilevered structure to maintain the open volume of the Machine Hall and emphasis the lightness of the new elements.
The project has a wholistic approach to sustainability, adapting existing buildings to create healthy and authentic places to work and be. This is a project about the future, that preserves the past through complement and contrast.
The Substation 164 project was a wonderful partnership between Built and fjmt that has had a profound impact on our organisation. Our leadership group and all the staff have been delighted at the outcome. Working within the new and refurbished spaces of this unique combination of heritage and new architecture it not only healthy, comfortable and enabling but inspiring and motivating. It has been particularly impactful for our team to experience the benefits of great design, the clarity of the concept, the attention to detail, the treatment of new and old with equal care, are all truly appreciated and understood.
The Australian Institute of Architects acknowledges First Nations peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands, waters, and skies of the continent now called Australia.
We express our gratitude to their Elders and Knowledge Holders whose wisdom, actions and knowledge have kept culture alive.
We recognise First Nations peoples as the first architects and builders. We appreciate their continuing work on Country from pre-invasion times to contemporary First Nations architects, and respect their rights to continue to care for Country.
