Architecture
A 45-metre artwork looming above the traffic at Kangaroo Point is fast becoming a new Brisbane landmark. Waterford Properties has spent more than $2 million on the work of art to adorn its 15-level $100m residential project Scott Street.
Made from interwoven precast concrete, the structure weighs a staggering 350 tonnes. “Our brief to the architects Jackson Teece, more than three years ago, was to design a striking contemporary luxury apartment building that would set it apart from all others in Brisbane,” said Waterford Properties managing director Mike Kavali.
“We were also encouraged by the Brisbane City Council development assessment team to incorporate a distinctive external treatment to the south-eastern part of the building as a gateway to the city-bound approach to the Story Bridge.” Mr Kavali said these days a new luxury city apartment building needs to make an artistic statement reflecting its quality and to establish its enduring identity.
“We wanted to enhance the public space around the development and draw attention to it at the same time," he said.
“The sculpture piece also responds to the architectural issues of providing comfort and privacy to the residents, while acting as a filter to the environment.” Mr Kavali said the giant vine-like motif is under construction and will be complete by the end the month. “The structure is gaining lots of attention from motorists and pedestrians crossing the Story Bridge,” he said.
“We are delighted with the outcome – it’s certainly becoming a public talking point, particularly with some other exciting and bold new designs for innercity bridges and buildings now happening in Brisbane.”
Mr Kavali said such a bold statement is relevant considering Scott Street’s colourful recent history as Ryan’s on the River and the historical precinct dating back to the early 1800s and the first settlements in Brisbane.
“We believe it will become an instantly recognisable landmark,” he said. The art work, designed by Damian Barker and Andrew Tesoriero of Jackson Teece, was inspired by Melaleuca forests and mangroves found along the Brisbane River and Moreton Bay.
