1 William Street, Brisbane

Standing tall and proud in the heart of Brisbane's central business district, 1 William Street is a striking skyscraper that has redefined the city's skyline. This architectural marvel, completed in October 2016, reaches an impressive height of 259.8 meters, making it one of the tallest buildings in Australia and a symbol of modernity and progress in Queensland.

The History of 1 William Street

The story of 1 William Street begins long before its towering structure graced the Brisbane skyline. The site has a rich history dating back to the mid-19th century. Originally, the area was traversed by Short Street and housed various buildings, including factories, warehouses, residences, and even an electricity generation plant. Over the years, the Queensland government began acquiring properties in the area as part of its Government Precinct project, culminating in the creation of a single, expansive parcel of land at 1 William Street.

In the 1960s, the government began demolishing the existing structures, some of which dated back to the mid-1800s. The debris from these demolitions, along with the construction of nearby buildings, was deposited on the site, effectively transforming it into a government car park by 1982. This remained the primary use of the land until 2013 when the vision for a new administrative complex took shape.

The Development of the Tower

The journey to create 1 William Street as we know it today began in earnest in August 2012 when the Queensland government initiated a competitive bidding process for the development of the site. The proposal was to lease the land to a private developer under a long-term agreement, with the government itself committing to lease a significant portion of the office space.

By December 2012, Cbus Property emerged as the successful developer, securing a 99-year lease on the site and a 15-year lease for 60,000 square meters of office space for the government. This ambitious project, with an estimated construction cost of $538 million and a total project cost exceeding $650 million, marked a significant investment in the future of Brisbane's urban landscape.

Architectural and Design Features

1 William Street is not just a towering office building; it is a masterpiece of modern architecture and design. With a total floor area of 119,977 square meters and a net lettable area of 74,853 square meters, the building offers ample space for both government and private sector tenants. The design of the tower incorporates sustainable features, aiming for a five-star energy rating and a three-star water consumption rating from NABERS.

Each floor of the building is uniquely themed and colored, drawing inspiration from various natural icons and phenomena of Queensland. This thoughtful design element not only adds aesthetic appeal but also creates a vibrant and dynamic working environment for its occupants.

Construction and Completion

The construction of 1 William Street commenced in early 2013, with a ceremonial groundbreaking attended by key government figures, including the Treasurer of Queensland and the Deputy Premier. Over the next few years, the site transformed from a car park into a bustling construction zone, culminating in the completion of the tower in October 2016.

By the end of 2016, the building became the new home for nine government departments and agencies, housing all state government ministers, most directors-general, and over 5,000 public servants. The relocation of these departments marked a significant milestone in the consolidation of government operations within Brisbane's central business district.

Exploring 1 William Street

Visitors to 1 William Street are immediately struck by its sleek, modern design and the impressive glass façade that reflects the vibrant energy of the city. The building's entrance is a grand affair, with a spacious lobby adorned with lush greenery and contemporary art installations that set the tone for the innovative and forward-thinking environment within.

Inside, the building offers a range of amenities, including retail spaces, dining options, and state-of-the-art office facilities. The upper floors provide breathtaking views of the Brisbane River and the cityscape, offering a unique perspective on the bustling metropolis below.

A Symbol of Progress

1 William Street is more than just an office building; it is a symbol of progress and a testament to Brisbane's growth and development. As the tallest building in the city until 2019, it stands as a beacon of modernity and a hub for government operations in Queensland. The tower's innovative design, sustainable features, and strategic location make it a key player in the ongoing evolution of Brisbane's urban landscape.

Whether you are a local resident, a government employee, or a visitor to the city, 1 William Street is a landmark worth exploring. Its towering presence and cutting-edge design offer a glimpse into the future of urban development in Brisbane, making it an unmissable attraction in the heart of Queensland's capital.