A development application for a new mixed use tower in Brisbane’s CBD seeks to incorporate the heritage features of an old hotel into the new design.

Designed by Ferro Arch, the 30-storey tower is proposed for the site of the Grosvenor Hotel (constructed 1881 – 1882) at 320 George Street, currently an adult entertainment venue. The DA proposes the partial demolition of non-critical internal components of the hotel to allow for the construction of the new tower.

The design comprises of 26 commercial office levels, two bar/café/restaurant outlets, two residential apartments and a 275sqm rooftop bar, and restaurant on level 29. It will also incorporate two basement levels and a communal terrace area on level 4. Each of these features have been designed around the heritage features of the hotel.

The proposal is accompanied by a Heritage Impact Report prepared by Conrad Gargett. The report considers that the demolition of the “generally non-original and intrusive fabric” of the hotel will retain a building perimeter consisting of its oldest features.

Proposed to be 110 metres high, the tower has been designed to provide an efficient core with natural lighting opportunities and views of the surrounding areas. The material palette is predominately composed of clear curtain glazing, coloured precast concrete screening and panelling.

Lat 27 has prepared a landscape concept plan for the development which provides green commercial breakout spaces on the level 4 common terrace space, and landscape amenity in keeping with Ferro’s building, aesthetic and current surrounding type. The landscape design will also offer shade and plant life for the rooftop bar.

Inspired by the timber lined bars and rooms of the original hotel, the podium has been laid out as a series of garden ‘suites’ opening onto a central corridor. These discreet spaces can be occupied as outdoor meeting rooms, places of study or research or as places for solitary reflection.

Located at a prominent exit point of the Brisbane CBD, the proposed site is surrounded by a range of existing and planned developments including Mercure Hotel Brisbane, King George Square, 217 George Street and Queens Wharf Project. The site is also strategically located to take full advantage of future proposed infrastructure works, such as the proposed high frequency ‘Brisbane Metro’ public transport project.

Nicholas Rider

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