This article is from the Australian Property Journal archive
THE City of Port Phillip has approved developer Argo Group’s $30 million Tichborne Place commercial building, designed by Fender Katsalidis and drawing inspiration from the surrounding terrace homes of South Melbourne.
The 3,727 sqm development will comprise four independent six-storey office premises, arranged vertically to break up the building’s length in keeping with the smaller lots typical of the area.
“South Melbourne is home to many beautiful Victorian homes and light industrial buildings, but it is certainly undergoing a transformation into a precinct of office and commercial showrooms,” said Argo Group managing director Nick Argyrou.
The frontage to Tichborne Place is wide and almost entirely surrounded by smaller bluestone lanes, allowing opportunities for access on all sides, northerly light and, on the upper levels, views towards Southbank and the CBD.
Briefed to devise a series of flexible commercial spaces that could be used by a variety of potential occupants, providing each premise with its own entrance, facilities and utilities, architects sought to make a positive contribution to the service-oriented location.
Fender Katsalidis partner James Pearce said the location of Tichborne Place called for a robust, honest design in keeping with its industrious locale.
“We have used the contemporary detailing of an industrial palette of concrete, steel, glass and brick to create a richly textured building, looking to South Melbourne’s future,” said Fender Katsalidis associate director Shem Kelder.
Integrated landscaping on the terraces above provides softened edges and external shading and fluted concrete profiles provide articulation and detail, they said.
The ground floor is reserved for flexible uses, each premise creating opportunities for warehouse, garage parking or showroom spaces, with boutique office space and reception areas above.
Argo Group is scheduled to commence construction and the sale of the individual commercial spaces in mid-2023.
Other South Melbourne commercial projects include multiple developments by Fortis, while the Deague family recently completed and sold off the fully occupied 101 Moray Street project.
