Cbus, Nielson Properties Unveil Winning Skyscraper

Super fund developer Cbus Property has lodged plans for a $600 million commercial development in Brisbane's fast-growing North Quarter precinct.

Plans have been put forward for a 37-storey A-grade office tower at 205 North Quay, designed by Hassell, New York-based REX and Brisbane’s Richards & Spence following an international design competition.

The winning design beat out submissions from three other shortlisted teams including Cox Architecture, SOM and Rapt Studio; BVN and Shop Architects; and Architectus and Woha.

The construction super fund’s property arm has partnered with local group Nielson Properties and the Raniga family to develop the 50,000sq m office project across a 3,000sq m corner site at the southern end of Brisbane’s CBD.

Nielson Properties, led by property developer Ross Nielson, amalgamated the riverfront site which includes neighbouring properties at 30 Herschel Street and 205 North Quay.

The proposed development aims to be reactive to the current health crisis with Cbus chief executive Adrian Pozzo stating the project would be a “holistic workplace with wellbeing its core priority”.

“At 205 North Quay, we have a unique opportunity to create a building and set of spaces that are uniquely positioned to blaze a trail for healthy buildings and their potential,” Pozzo said.

Pozzo noted there had been a renewed focus on exceeding council’s ‘Buildings that Breathe’ guidelines, with the impacts of Covid-19 increasing the importance of mental and physical health.

It will also feature an entire floor dedicated to wellness facilities, 25-metre lap pool, childcare facilities, a public realm auditorium and outdoor terraces on each level.

Cbus is also implementing sustainable practices across the project, targeting a 6 Green Star rating and 5.5 Star NABERS Energy rating.

To meet these goals the building's form will reduce energy, waste and water usage, control midday, afternoon and early evening sun through its articulated facade and incorporate LED lights and sensors and use regenerative lifts.

The proposed tower will now add to the continued regeneration of the burgeoning North Quarter precinct, joining Mirvac’s 80 Ann Street tower which will be tenanted by Suncorp, Shayher Group’s 300 George Street project and the recently completed W Hotel on George Street.

Its proximity to Brisbane’s new Grand Central station on Roma Street, under construction Cross River Rail and proposed Brisbane Live entertainment venue, is expected to be a drawcard for prospective tenants.

Cbus Property is no stranger to Brisbane, after developing the state government's $650 million executive building at 1 William Street in 2016.

If approved, its North Quay development will move ahead with a construction timeline concluding in 2023.