The City of Sydney has approved a proposal to create a sculptural new building in the historic Rocks area, designed by Smart Design Studio.
The former Westpac Museum building, located between the heritage-listed Union Bond Store at 47 George Street and Merchant House at 43-45 George Street, will be demolished to make way for the new building, which, according to the development application, will be used for “future commercial or retail purposes or food and drink premises.”
Smart Design Studio’s proposal calls for new through-site links to be created, which will provide access to a courtyard at the rear of the building.
A spiral staircase will connect all levels of the building as well as provide a dynamic form within the interior, topped with a halo skylight that will provide natural light.
Proposal for 43-45 George Street The Rocks by Smart Design Studio.
Image: Supplied
A sculptural facade, to be made from staggered and curved brick with organic geometric form, will become an exterior expression of the spiral stair.
The building will be topped with a roof terrace and canopy that will provide partial cover, designed as an “elegant, suspended plane.”
The heritage-listed Union Bond Store and Merchant House will also be refurbished as part of the project.
The site is owned and managed by Place Management NSW.
