AMP proposes ‘golden’ facelift for Sydney's oldest skyscraper
AMP Capital has submitted a development application for the makeover of Sydney’s first skyscraper, 33 Alfred Street — which it owns — overlooking Circular Quay.
On the table are a major fit out and upgrade of the 55-year-old building while preserving its heritage character. It is a 26 storey A-grade office tower.
The building has local heritage listing and the upgrade aims to reinstate lost features while refurbishing internal spaces and improving the environmental performance of the building to bring it in line with premium commercial office standards, AMP said in a media release.
The application came after two years of talks with the City of Sydney and the state government, AMP said. Once approvals are in place, construction is expected to start in 2020.
AMP Capital’s chief operating officer, Real Estate, Louise Mason said the work “will breathe new life into this office tower whilst paying tribute to its history, heritage and place at Sydney’s global gateway”.
“The building’s unique place in history and its distinctive design make 33 Alfred Street an important part of Sydney’s and Australia’s cityscapes. Along with being Australia’s first skyscraper, the building was cutting edge in its time, incorporating many other ‘firsts’ and innovations in its design. The proposed redevelopment will restore the building to its rightful status as a premium-grade office tower in keeping with this history, and its prominent place at Circular Quay,” she said.
The upgrade involves improving the building’s façades, increased activation of the street level frontages and an upgrade of the building’s services and interior.
AMP Capital has appointed architect JPW for the project.
AMP Capital Diversified Property Fund and the AMP Capital Wholesale Office Fund announced in December 2016 they had jointly acquired 33 Alfred Street on behalf of their investors for an undisclosed amount. Owned by AMP Life, 33 Alfred Street is AMP Limited’s headquarters.
“33 Alfred Street was developed by AMP 55 years ago. We are committed to leading the way and ensuring the project is an exemplar of sensitive and sustainable renewal.”
She said AMP is not going to fundamentally alter its structure or create any additional floor space. It will be a interior refurbishment and upgrade of the building’s services, including a complete modernisation of the tower façade.