Designs Unveiled for Adelaide’s First Skyscraper

The rejuvenation of Adelaide CBD’s Festival Plaza is gathering pace as designs for Adelaide’s first skyscraper go public. 

Walker Corporation’s planned 38-level tower, its second building in the plaza, would be Adelaide’s largest commercial office and includes 30 levels of office space above a podium.

The plans mark a huge upscale of the original proposal for a three-storey retail building at the site, which were reworked into the highrise project last year, and are going to the State Government for approval. 

The smaller project “would have completely obscured views of Parliament’s heritage facade and balcony entirely”, according to the South Australian Government.

The way was cleared for the highrise development this year when South Australian planning minister Nick Champion approved the Festival Plaza Code Amendment, allowing for 40-storey buildings on the site.

The 160m tower will be Adelaide’s tallest building and its first skyscraper.

It is predicted to accommodate 5000 office workers and another 100 retail workers.

▲ A rendering of the skyscraper from the plaza.

In consultation with the State Government Architect, the design included a raised outdoor space for the base of the building, as well as a new laneway between the tower and Parliament House. 

Early preparatory works have already begun, with the project, alongside its neighbouring 29-storey Festival Tower also by Walker Corporation, now under construction by Built. 

Walker is reportedly in discussions with tenants for pre-commitments to the commercial floors, with announcements expected soon. 

Walker will now file its Development Application with the independent State Commission Assessment Panel. A decision is expected within months.

▲ A rendering of the Festival Plaza skyscraper.

Walker Corporation chief executive David Gallant said it was a “milestone” and “the final piece in the transformation of Adelaide’s premier commercial and entertainment precinct”.

“Through an extensive 18-month pre-lodgement process with the State Planning Department, and valuable guidance from the State Government Architect and SA Heritage, we have ensured that the tower aligns with Adelaide’s planning objectives and architectural aspirations,” Gallant said.

“Its world-class diamond-shaped facade will create a striking visual identity, while a signature rooftop bar and restaurant will offer unparalleled views of the Riverbank, Adelaide Oval and the Adelaide Hills.”