109 Edward Street is a unique heritage-listed, 6 storey former warehouse building in the Brisbane CBD, getting its biggest makeover in 131 years.
MCD and Evolve Constructions engaged PDT Architects and other specialist consultants to design a refurbishment, that enhances the original heritage character of the building for commercial office spaces on levels 1-4, with opportunities for office, retail, restaurant, bar, or café tenancy spaces at ground and basement levels.
The Edward Street building façade is being repainted in original heritage and contemporary colours that highlight it’s “Late Victorian” architecture, in a fresh style distinguishing its heritage and commercial value. The original load-bearing brick walls, timber flooring, posts and beams, have been stripped back to expose the heritage character of the original material finishes, arches have been reopened in the central spine wall, and the building structure has been reinforced to meet current standards and seismic design requirements. The original carriageway off Edward Street provides access to the rear courtyard where goods originally used to be hoisted up the building. A new compliant fire exit stairway has been constructed, with internal exit stairs upgraded, new sprinkler and fire services installed, plus complete upgrade of building services to meet code.
An existing lift provides equitable access to basement and upper levels. Evolve Constructions have actioned this challenging construction project in two stages: the demolition stage involved the removal of the “Metro Arts” tenancy fit-outs, use of a robot to carry out the dangerous demolition of the old theatre spaces, and re-leveling of the entire building; and construction stage, using traditional trade skills to enhance the original building features and integrating new services, new roof cladding and refurbishment of existing doors and windows.
George Heath - a long past port of Brisbane harbour master, originally constructed the building in 1890, as part of the Brisbane warehousing district, close to the wharves and retail heart of the township. Over the years 109 Edward street has housed many tenants, undergone numerous refurbishments, survived serious fire damage, depression years, and two world wars, with addition of a lift and toilets in 1949 by the Commonwealth government, and significant structural changes in 1976 for the Metro Arts.
Thanks to the investment and resolve of the new building owner, and to MCD Australia Project Management, and Evolve Constructions, for giving pdt architects the opportunity to save our important Brisbane architectural heritage. 109 Edward Street is due for completion in mid-2021.
Further information:
Please contact Ray Pini
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