A new 31-storey mixed-use building will soon rise above the Pyrmont Metro Station in Sydney, with plans approved for the over-station development, which represents an example of integrated urban planning.

Part of the transformational Sydney Metro West underground railway project, which will double rail capacity between Parramatta and the Sydney CBD, the Pyrmont Metro Station is currently under development and has recently achieved a breakthrough milestone with the completion of tunnel excavation work last month, clearing the way for the construction of the proposed $171-million over-station development.

“Pyrmont Station will be on the doorstep of Darling Harbour, Blackwattle Bay, the new Sydney Fish Market and the Sydney CBD. Pyrmont Station and over-station development will enable a new harbour-side precinct, supporting knowledge-intensive jobs, activated public domain, retail and residential activities,” states Sydney Metro.

Pyrmont metro station - Woods Bagot (1).jpg

Designed by leading Australian architectural practice, Woods Bagot, the Pyrmont over-station development will deliver 160 new residential apartments along with five levels of commercial offices, retail spaces and 55 car parking spaces, based on a tower-over-podium building typology. Located at 37-69 Union Street on a triangular site, the proposed building will include 16,198 square metres of residential accommodation within the tower and 7,265 square metres of commercial and retail tenancies as well as spaces ancillary to residential accommodation in the podium. Affordable housing is also part of the diverse residential mix with 3% of the total GFA allocated for the purpose.

Future residents, commercial tenants and visitors will enjoy seamless access to metro rail services as well as improved transport connections including buses and light rail.

The podium’s frontage is set back from the street for an improved streetscape. The retail and dining spaces will activate the ground level, with through-links in the building improving site permeability and contributing to Sydney Metro’s goal of creating “a vibrant new precinct where people can live, shop, work and play”.

The over-station development is integrated with the Pyrmont Metro Station to encourage cohesive precinct development. The concept designs for the mixed-use tower, which were released last year by Woods Bagot ahead of the public exhibition and consultation, reveal that the new station and building will integrate with the surrounding area, while respecting Pyrmont's heritage, enhancing the local character, and creating a pedestrian-friendly urban environment.

The podium design references heritage buildings in the neighbourhood in both fine grain architectural expression and materiality, says Woods Bagot Principal and project leader John Prentice. The materials palette will be informed by the surrounding heritage fabric while the tower massing – comprised of an L-shaped form and a triangular core – is designed to maximise views and solar access.

“The new precinct is grounded in people-prioritised spaces, creating a new cultural and community destination through integrated public realm and equitable architectural design,” adds Prentice.

The Sydney Metro West line, with stations at Westmead, Parramatta, Sydney Olympic Park, North Strathfield, Burwood North, Five Dock, The Bays, Pyrmont and Hunter Street in the Sydney CBD, is expected to begin operations in 2032.

Images: Woods Bagot

Architecture News & Editorial Desk

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