Projects in Focus - Challenges at One Sydney Harbour

CGC Projects in Focus - Challenges for Architects at One Sydney Harbour

Our blog series, CGC Projects in Focus, not only highlights new major projects across New South Wales and Queensland, but also provides relevant information and commentary on current developments.  Just like the architectural challenges at One Sydney Harbour.

One Sydney Harbour is an impressive address and it’s an equally impressive building and construction project. Designed by internationally recognised architect, Renzo Piano, One Sydney Harbour will consist of three high-rise towers destined for luxury residential use. The towers will be an elegant addition to Sydney’s skyline when they’re finally completed in 2020.

One Sydney Harbour has not been without design challenges for the architects. Let’s take a look at just three of them.

1. Don't block the view

Sydney-siders love a water view, so any major development on the Harbour is bound to draw commentary and heavy restrictions.  The design brief for One Sydney Harbour required that the towers not obstruct – as far as possible - the views from surrounding areas. The architects’ solution to this constraint was very practical, simple and elegant, creating slender buildings that are positioned apart from each other so you can see through them.

2. Sparkling, high-performance facades

In its design statement, the architecture practice said: “Our vision is to design three buildings with a gentle presence in the cityscape and in dialogue with the harbour waters”.

How did they achieve this? Calling on specialist skills, they gave the towers a reflecting, crystalline facade. The spin-off for residents is that they’ll be able to enjoy amazing views of Sydney from floor-to-ceiling glass windows.

But the facades will do much more than sparkle and offer an impressive view. They’ll also be high-performance – a special external glazing will ensure performance in terms of energy usage, thermal loads and access to natural light.

3. Sustainable living

From the outset, the architects wanted to achieve a 5-star Green Star Multi Unit Residential Design from the Green Building Council of Australia for the entire complex.

One of the key ways in which the buildings meet this goal is through an expertly engineered connection to the District Cooling Plant and local recycled water plant. This provides energy efficiency savings in relation to cooling within the buildings as well as sustainable use of water.

More opportunities

At CGC Recruitment, we have filled numerous top architects, engineering and project management positions that have been key to projects just like, One Sydney Harbour. With specialised knowledge of the New South Wales and Queensland construction and infrastructure sectors, we have many more exciting opportunities for professionals and businesses.

Our highly-motivated team of experienced consultants help clients and candidates connect with major projects by bringing in the best talent and opportunities.

If you’re looking for your next career opportunity, you can register with CGC today. Simply complete our online registration, which takes just 30 seconds. Or if you’re looking for something in particular, contact us or search our jobs.

If you’re looking for the right team member, get in touch with CGC and one of our experienced consultants will be happy to help.

To be involved in projects or to attract candidates that are changing and improving Australia’s infrastructure, contact us today to find out more. There are lots of stimulating career challenges out there!