Pembroke Real Estate, which acquired 20 Martin Place in 2011, has announced that the prime property in Sydney’s CBD will be undergoing a complete refurbishment beginning this month.  

Local architects Crone Partners, together with James Carpenter Design Associates, have been appointed to upgrade the early 1970’s building and its inefficient systems.

The main vision of the team is to re-create an iconic building that will change the face of Martin Place and bring new dynamism to the iconic public plaza.

With a keen focus on optimised efficiency, performance and sustainability, the completed 20 Martin Place will feature a new high-performance glass façade that is designed to illuminate the property with changing colours that reflect the sun’s movement throughout the day.

Other key changes include the installation of new building systems and technology, and the relocation of the core of the building to the north side to create more efficient, flexible and larger office floor plates.

The new offices will feature 2.7 metre floor-to-ceiling heights and 20 lighting zones, which will allow for flexibility in tenants’ desired fitout design. There will also be a fully landscaped outdoor terrace on level 3 overlooking Martin Place.

These changes, designed to achieve a 5 star NABERS Energy Rating and a 5 Star Green Star As-Built rating, will create approximately 19,080sqm of commercial office and retail space over 21 levels.

Australia and New Zealand Bank Group Limited (ANZ), the main occupants of the old building, has already signed a lease agreement with Pembroke Real Estate to retain its retail presence after the refurbishments.

It is expected that the upgrades, along with the site's prominent corner location, will boost the value of the property and draw in new tenants.