The new headquarters for Judith Neilson’s Institute of Journalism and Ideas is a unique commercial project that has been thoughtfully designed and constructed to promote, support and celebrate quality storytelling around the world.
The site contained one heritage terrace and a corner building. The heritage building was retained and restored and the corner building demolished for a new building which is sympathetic to the conservation and historical streetscape.
Structurally the project presented multiple challenges. Custom formwork was developed to achieve the many Class-1 off-form finishes desired by the designers and client. The spatial restrictions of the site required careful planning to ensure that the desired quality for exposed structural elements was achieved.
The project presented a significant challenge across many areas such as Heritage Conservation, poor and contaminated ground conditions, environmental constraints, neighbouring properties, authority dealings, plus heavy use of bronze in the façade features and interiors.
Challenges of the construction includes the three-dimensional insitu concrete curved roof structure. Procurement of 35 tonnes of bronze from overseas, fabrication into bespoke elements such as window frames, awnings and interior features.
The project highlights the incredible result which can be achieved when the Client removes the design and financial barriers that are normally imposed on projects.
The Judges have given the award due to the outstanding finish achieved throughout this unique and bespoke project.