124 EXHIBITION ST
2023
“An exercise in renewal—retaining the raw integrity of Brutalism while upgrading performance, access and amenity for a contemporary city.”
Located in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD, this ten-storey building was originally designed by the Office of Theodore Berman F.R.A.I.A Architects, best known for the Parkroyal Motor Inn in Parkville. Completed in 1973, the Brutalist structure, defined by its masonry and concrete construction, has hosted a diverse and creative mix of tenants over time.
March Studio was engaged to bring 124 Exhibition Street into the 21st century, addressing a range of upgrades and compliance requirements critical to the building’s performance and liveability, while remaining true to its Brutalist origins.
The redesign introduces new ground-floor amenities, including end-of-trip facilities, and reconfigures the entry to provide equitable access. Facade works include the replacement of all windows and glazing to improve thermal performance and acoustics, alongside comprehensive upgrades to base building services, including air conditioning, electrical and fire systems.
The approach is deliberately sympathetic, focusing on amplifying the qualities that defined the building at its inception. The project seeks to retain the spirit of the original design while extending its life as a renewed and relevant presence within Melbourne’s CBD.
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COMMERCIAL, RESTORATION, HERITAGE
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COMPLETED 2023
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WURUNDJERI | MELBOURNE, VICTORIA
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LANDSCAPE | OCULUS
BUILDER | JARDON
STRUCTURAL ENGINEER | HENNESSY
SINGAGE | BERRIDGE COOPER
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PETER BENNETTS