The AUD70 million ($59.1 million approx) redevelopment scheme, designed by the Australian practice Bates Smart Architects, has rebuilt the old Mid City shopping center.
The project consists of 36 tower levels comprising 28 office levels, four retail levels, two basement car park levels and two plant levels, totaling approximately 42,000 square metres. The development also includes a new commercial lobby with a five-story atrium.
The tower is expressed as two volumes – a silvery polished concrete volume to the north – and a transparent green glass volume to the south. The north part is designed to house the core and breakout areas, and the green glass volume houses a 19m clear span office space. The five Green Star design-rated commercial office tower soars directly above the retail podium with a separate entrance. The shopping center features stone and glass façade.
Sunshades to the east and west façades help in minimizing heat gain. The podium façades respond directly to the sandstone and perpendicular proportioning of the adjoining heritage buildings.
Stage one of the scheme was unveiled in March 2010. With the completion of the second stage, the shopping center is expected to anchor 55 specialty stores across four floors including Virgin Active and Rebel Sport.
Pitt Street Mall is currently undergoing a major refurbishment in order to complement the remodeled Mid City Centre. Mid City is the first shopping center to be reopened in the complex.
