Atlassian Central: A Record-breaking Achievement
The skyline of Sydney now hosts a groundbreaking marvel: Atlassian Central, the world’s tallest hybrid timber tower. Designed by the innovative minds of SHoP Architects and BVN Architecture, this impressive structure reaches 180 meters (591 feet), soaring past the previous record set by Milwaukee’s 86.6-meter Ascent tower.
Redefining Timber: From Cabin to Skyscraper
Timber, traditionally reserved for modest structures, now ascends to architectural prominence with Atlassian Central. This skyscraper combines approximately 10,000 cubic meters of engineered timber—primarily glue-laminated and cross-laminated panels—with a robust concrete core and steel exoskeleton. The outcome is not only visually striking but also a statement in sustainable construction.
The building’s environmental impact is significantly reduced through the utilization of prefabricated timber. BVN aims for a 50% reduction in embodied carbon and an equal improvement in energy efficiency compared to conventional tower designs. Peter Titmus, BVN Principal, highlights this as a landmark shift in how tall buildings are conceived and constructed.
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Innovative Design Meets Practicality
The 39-story tower serves primarily as an office space, featuring a four-story atrium that promotes natural light and ventilation. Beyond workspaces, the building boasts a rooftop garden, garden terraces, and a restored historical lobby area. The lower levels incorporate the site of a former youth hostel, enriching the architectural story by blending Sydney’s past into its forward-thinking design.
While the core structure stands complete, the facade continues to take shape with solar panels and advanced cooling systems, slated for completion by year’s end.
A Vision of Timber’s Future
The Atlassian Central is more than a corporate landmark; it serves as a prototype for future mass-timber towers worldwide. SHoP Architects‘ Andreia Teixeira notes that the tower not only fosters collaboration but also integrates the natural environment within an urban setting, paving the way for enhanced work-life experiences.
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This pioneering project underscores how traditional materials can innovate and redefine possibilities in modern architecture. Atlassian Central doesn’t just break records; it lays the foundation for imaginative and sustainable future urban designs.
Images Courtesy of Dexus.
The merger of timber with concrete and steel optimally balances the tower’s sustainability and structural integrity. This amalgamation cuts the overall weight and carbon footprint significantly, positioning Atlassian Central as a formidable player in eco-conscious architecture.
Set alongside the historic Sydney Central Station, the tower incorporates The Parcels Shed, now repurposed to complement its modern counterpart. Completion is anticipated within the year as final fixtures bring this towering vision to life.
Founded in 1996, New York’s SHoP Architects have crafted iconic towers, including Manhattan’s 111 W 57th Street. BVN, with offices across Sydney, Brisbane, London, and New York, co-designed landmark projects such as Sydney Fish Market and Quay Quarter Tower, awarded Best Tall Building Worldwide in 2023.
Photography by Toby Peet.
Sources & Links
Source: mossandfog.com
Frequently asked questions
What is Atlassian Central known for?
Atlassian Central is known as the world’s tallest hybrid timber tower, reaching 180 meters and surpassing the previous record set by Milwaukee’s Ascent tower.
What materials are used in Atlassian Central’s construction?
Atlassian Central combines approximately 10,000 cubic meters of engineered timber with a robust concrete core and steel exoskeleton to create a sustainable and visually striking skyscraper.
What is the environmental impact of Atlassian Central?
The building’s environmental impact is significantly reduced through the utilization of prefabricated timber, aiming for a 50% reduction in embodied carbon and an improvement in energy efficiency compared to conventional tower designs.