5 Martin Place

Sydney, Australia

Firm

Johnson Pilton Walker

Project Type

Commercial

Duration

2014/ 1 Year

Completion

2016

Phases Involved In

Construction Documentation

Size

350,000 sq ft

Construction Value

$200 Million AUD

Project Description

5 Martin Place, formerly the Head Office of the Commonwealth Bank, stands as one of Sydney’s most iconic early 20th-century buildings. During my tenure at JPW, I was actively engaged in the restoration and revitalization of this historic 1916 “money box” building, which included the addition of a substantial 25-level cantilevering steel office tower. The project incorporated innovative sustainability solutions, such as integrated chilled beams and double-skin façade. In addressing the challenge of large floor plates, natural light was reinstated with the addition of a central light-filled atrium bringing natural light into the Banking Chamber.

I worked on the project for a year, initially assisting with the construction documentation package and then continuing on the project during the construction phase. Given the building’s significance and the project’s scale, this experience honed my skills in detail-oriented work during the CD phase and enhanced my problem-solving abilities during construction.

Lobby Documentation

I assumed responsibility for the construction documentation of the lobby space, which featured significant elements like cantilevering marble walls and a glass fin skylight. My role extended to designing the reception desk, involving full coordination of mechanical, electrical, and security systems within the joinery. I also collaborated closely with the café tenant to seamlessly integrate their design and requirements into the design.

Glass Elevator Development

Working alongside an elevator specialist, I contributed to the design of the elevator cab interiors, which featured large marble slabs and mirrored ceilings with bronze detailing, respecting the heritage building. The elevator core was clad with glass bricks and featured frosted glass floors extending all 25 stories, enabling natural light to penetrate the large floor plates.

Atrium Details

As the project transitioned into the construction phase, I played a role in reviewing shop drawings for the glass box structure that sits over the large restored heritage atrium. This task involved the coordination of details and models with the subcontractor. Additionally, I assisted in the comprehensive coordination of the glass and fittings.

Construction

Throughout construction, I conducted frequent on-site visits, multiple times a week with the contractor. This entailed conducting walk-throughs to identify and address construction issues and detailing challenges. I worked closely with the project architect to develop solutions and issue sketches with a rapid turnaround time to facilitate the smooth construction progress of the project.

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