A development application has been submitted for the construction of a 17 storey commercial tower located at 21-25 Morgan Street and 72-74 McLachlan Street, Fortitude Valley.
Under the proposal, the 2,038sqm site would be developed by Grocon into a commercial-led mixed-use development which would include 200sqm of retail and lobby space at ground level as well as 15 commercial levels.
Designed by Cox Architecture, the development includes communal outdoor terrace areas provided at level 2 and the rooftop.
According to Cox Architecture, the building design integrates with the eclectic mix of contemporary and heritage building character of the Fortitude Valley area and contributes to the “desired subtropical character of the city”.
The development represents a distinct podium and tower form, with an articulated and modulated built form and façade.
At the ground level, the varied setback lines and truncated corner at Morgan Street and McLachlan Street enable a landscaped edge and delivery of an entry plaza, outdoor terrace and streetscape outcome aligned with Brisbane City Council’s locality street requirements, including a 4.75 metre verge to McLachlan Street and 3.75 metre verge to Morgan Street. – Development application
Development rundown
- Total Gross Floor Area: (GFA) 18,825sqm (24,124sqm GBA)
- Maximum Building Height: 17 storeys (inclusive of a mezzanine level within upper ground level)
- Maximum Podium Height: 3 storeys
- Total Communal Open Space Total: 490sqm, consisting of a 220sqm external terrace on level 2 and 270sqm external terrace on Level 15
- Car Parking: 63 car spaces (including 2 PWD spaces), including 2 motorcycle spaces at basement level
- End-of-trip Facilities: Bicycle parking, lockers and showers. The end-of-trip facility is proposed across two storeys on the upper ground level and mezzanine level, and will accommodate 134 bicycle parking space and 14 showers.
Known as Morgan + McLauchlan, there are two street entries to the development with the main entrance via a large urban room with subtropical landscaping, skylights and supporting F&B amenities.
The main ground floor is designed to open out onto its corner location between Morgan and McLachlan Streets.
The multi-level lobby extends the majority of the width of McLachlan street to bring animation and life to a currently car-dominated street.
The lobby is transparent, with double and triple height volumes that brings in natural light deep into the space. The lobby is welcoming with publicly accessible retail and cafe spaces, and will serve as a retreat from busy McLachlan Street for tenants, neighbours and visitors. – Development application
The development has integrated modular planters to support the use of living greenery throughout the building. The planters are located above the lobby entry portals, the edge of Level 2 Terrace, and Level 15 roof Terrace.
Public art is planned for the ground level as well as the use of creative lighting which aims to create a strong presence for the building in the Brisbane skyline.
The rooftop terrace and ground plane will all be illuminated to create a signature appearance to the development while helping to create a safe public domain around the building perimeter. – Development application
The building will be designed to achieve a minimum 5 Star Green star design and 5 Star NABERS Energy rating. Allowance has been made for 99kw of Photovoltaics to be incorporated on the rooftop.
Future provision for electric vehicle charge points and onsite energy storage are proposed in the basement car park subject to tenant requirements. Base build infrastructure will allow for future 5G capability.
This DA supersedes a previous application for a 15 level, 4-5 star hotel and residential tower, submitted by Portfolio Pty Ltd.
The development application for this project, available to view on Brisbane City Council’s Planning & Development Online is A005329430.
