The refurbishment acted as a catalyst to launch the building as a commercial office, retail and public precinct rebranded as ‘William Square’. The architectural vision for the aesthetic expression was inspired by the diverse cultural fabric and heritage of Northbridge.
The office foyer has been refitted, and activated by adjoining food and beverage tenancies. The existing lightwell has been extended to the lobby level to provide natural light into the ground level foyer and to newly introduced lobby planting.
New two storey perforated aluminium façade screens along the William Street and Francis Street elevations improve the building presentation on this prominent corner, providing solar protection for the office spaces behind, whilst maintaining views. The screens are lit at night to provide a dramatic backdrop to the lively Northbridge nightlife. The geometric pattern of the Francis Street façade screens take inspiration from the area’s strong Greek cultural heritage, whilst the golden hues of the proposed William Street façade screens reference the impact of the gold boom era on the precinct.
The redevelopment creates worthwhile urban spaces, a destination for public use and enjoyment, with a distinct character that engages with the ever-evolving Northbridge precinct.
