fresh outlook

When it comes to the refurbishment of an iconic building, the process becomes as much about staying true to the original vision as it does meeting current and future needs.

Designed by Harry Seidler, Grosvenor Place immediately became one of Sydney's premier business addresses when it opened in 1988. Now, 20-plus years later, the recent refurbishment commissioned by the owners (Commonwealth Custodial Services Limited, Investa Property Group, Australian Reward Investment Alliance) and Grosvenor Place Management ensures Grosvenor Place continues as one of Sydney's most innovative office towers, says Brett Pryor, project manager for Architectural Glass Projects (AGP).

"One of the features that made Grosvenor Place a stand-out building was the extensive use of glazing. The existing polycarbonate glass panels within the overhead space frame were replaced with new high-performance glazing, while new vertical glazing and revolving doors now fully enclose what was once a lacklustre food court area, transforming it into a vibrant, intimate and stylish indoor space."

AGP worked with both the architect and builder to seamlessly blend old and new to create a striking, modern foyer. The company also installed curved glazing to the security and foyer meeting rooms, new glass balustrades, and five revolving doors, one curved sliding door entrance, two automatic sliding doors and four automatic swing doors for disabled access.

The revolving doors and curved sliding door were specially designed and built using mirror-finish stainless steel cladding to the door structure, canopy and sidewalls, and ceiling panels fitted with LED lights to provide a starlight feature.

The architect specified a frameless rotating carousel from AGP's renowned Fullview series for the revolving doors, which feature integrated windback door wings that can automatically open to provide free access when required.

"Given the intricacies of the project glazing had to provide for thermal shock, as well as the loadings associated with 1-in-100-year storms limited site access, and very large panels up to 1 tonne each, AGP's broad engineering and design capabilities were critical in bringing this complex and singular project to fruition, says Pryor. "Despite the design challenges, AGP was able to deliver the project on time and we're all very proud of the end result."

For more information, contact Architectural Glass Projects Pty Ltd, 9 Liberty Road, Huntingwood, NSW 2148, phone (02) 9671 0000, or visit the website: www.agpgroup.com.au.

Story by: Trendsideas