At the time of this conversion, Saatchi & Saatchi had occupied the Metcalfe Bond Store building in The Rocks for 25 years. Smart Design Studio was engaged to upgrade the base building on behalf of the proprietor, the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority, and to design a contemporary interior space befitting the commercial tenant.
Expand ContentThe refurbishment of this heritage-listed building gave it a new lease of life and ensured its ongoing contribution to the lively Rocks precinct. The works included a complete replacement of services, as well as a BCA and fire safety upgrade to the building. A new internal floor area was added through the construction of a mezzanine between the existing roof trusses and reconfiguration of the building’s entrance area.
Careful consideration was given during the concept design stage to ensure the new works embraced design qualities and detail befitting this 100-year-old heritage building. Dark timber lining and brass fixtures, for example, complement the exposed brick walls and white-painted timber structure. The reticulation of new services have been masterfully integrated to not detract from the building’s heritage fabric and provide adequate flexibility to meet the needs of the future.
Energy efficiency has been addressed via implementation of a variable refrigerant flow (VRF) mechanical ventilation system connected to the Rocks Harbour Water Heat Exchange. Restoration of the existing timber windows allows the building’s users to operate them for natural ventilation. Dali lighting has been installed with zoning for daylight harvesting around the building’s perimeter.
The design approach ensures that new elements, while contemporary, are highly integrated and minimally expressed for near invisible presence.
