A $120 million redevelopment of the Geelong Carlton Hotel has received the go ahead from council authorities and the transformation of the historic building is expected to begin as early as mid-2015.
The Woods Bagot design will see heritage elements of the 1884-built hotel, including its art deco brick façade, retained amidst a nine-storey contemporary addition.
The approved plans show that nearly 18,000sqm of commercial space will be delivered across a nine-storey tower with uninterrupted window access on all four perimeters. The tower and its podium will be set back from the existing foot print of the Carlton Hotel to create a plaza-style entrance to the new building.
A fritted double glazed curtain wall rises from a two storey podium to the rooftop plant level and is punctured only by sun oriented gold anodised aluminium shrouds. The podium is also wrapped in a combination of clear and gold coloured fritted glazing but will feature a pattern of curving gold aluminium mullions.
The roof top plant level will be setback to incorporate a terrace for tenants and will be covered by bronze anodised aluminium louvres and vegetation.
The building complies to 5 Star NABERS and Commonwealth and State Government building specifications and includes plans for a cafe and other amenities as well as three levels of basement carparking
Techne Development will construct the project and have committed to helping the Council upgrade the surrounding streetscape which will include tree-lining Malop Street and enhancing the public amenity including new lighting, landscaping, street furniture and public art.
The Woods Bagot project will now compete with other landlords and developers in a bid to house the National Disability Insurance Agency and WorkCover government tenancies.
Images: Star Community.
