Software company Atlassian has revealed plans to build the world’s tallest hybrid timber building for its new headquarters in the tech precinct next to Sydney’s Central Station. The roughly 40 storey building will be home to thousands of technology workers when complete in 2025.
After an extensive global search, Atlassian has selected New York-based SHoP architects, and Australian practice BVN as the design team.
The ground-breaking design of timber, with a glass and steel facade will include a mix of outdoor and indoor spaces and will use an energy-efficient approach that features natural ventilation and large planted terraces giving access to nature.
The project will target 50 per cent less embodied carbon in construction compared to a conventional building and 50 per cent less energy consumption compared with a new conventionally operated building. It will operate on 100 per cent renewable energy from day one and include solar panels built into the façade.
The building will completely regenerate Central Station as part of the NSW Government’s plan to build a new tech precinct attracting 25,000 workers.
William Sharples, SHoP Founding Principal said: “Our collective work around the world focuses on elevating the experience of the public realm in urban environments, so we really welcome this opportunity to work with such wonderful partners to create a high-performance landmark for Sydney’s new tech district, at ground level and in the skyline.”
Ninotschka Titchkosky, BVN co-CEO added: “Atlassian has their eyes set firmly on the future, this project will achieve a number of ‘firsts’ globally and in Australia. It will make what was once best practice seem inadequate and hopefully lift the ambition of the built environment across Australia.”
Construction of the Atlassian headquarters is expected to generate approximately 2500 additional jobs and add almost one billion dollars a year to the Australian economy.
Once complete, 4000 Atlassian staff will use the building. The existing YHA at the site will be revitalised and incorporated into the lower levels of the new building. The existing heritage parcel shed will also be incorporated into the development.
Artist’s impression image, courtesy of BVN.
Atlassian Co-Founder and Co-CEO Scott Farquhar believes that technology can turbo-charge Australia’s recovery.
“That’s why we’re building this precinct. We want to create jobs, ideas and innovation,” he said.
“This will be home to thousands of workers and the best new ideas. If you want to work in tech – this is the place you will want to be.”
“Sydney has the potential to be one of the world’s leading technology cities and the creation of a tech precinct sends a loud signal that we’re in the race to take a slice of the world’s most valuable market. That’s an exciting place to be,” Mr Farquhar commented.
NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian added that Atlassian is a great Australian success story and noted that it’s very fitting for them to have their headquarters in Sydney.
“Tech Central will rival Silicon Valley as the place to be. This means more jobs and opportunities for all of our citizens,” she said.
Development applications for the building are expected to be lodged in coming months, with a plan to begin construction next year.
