Origami-inspired' aluminium awning that transforms the existing Façade
The redevelopment of the HSBC Tower in Sydney's midtown CBD has re-established this building to iconic status, thanks to the creative use of modern design and engineering innovation.Originally designed by TTW in 1988, the 33-level office tower has been re-energised with airy light-filled foyer space and exciting external finishes including a stunning structural canopy along George Street. High over the foyer entrance, the canopy comprises alternating diamonds of brushed aluminium forming a continuous ribbon along the canopy soffit. It links the existing structure to the north, dropping down to a more intimate scale at the southern end; providing both pedestrian shelter and a unifying effect.
Intelligent engineering ensured a robust structure that would resist the high wind loads, and be both functional and beautiful. The final structure comprises a series of welded vertical frames, connected with bolted diagonal truss members, to form a single three-dimensional space frame. An "interface" surface between the soffit system and structural zone enabled freedom to manipulate the panel pattern and simplify coordination. Extensive use of state-of-the-art design and modelling software allowed detailed design aspects to be fully investigated to ensure optimal solutions for construction within a busy city hub.
