117 Harris Street Pyrmont
A Heritage Building with a Modern Brief
Built in the 1870s, the three-story Victorian Regency building at 117 Harris St Pyrmont holds a significant place in the area’s historical character, officially listed as a local environmental heritage item. The building, which features a wedged shape with its main facade on Harris Street, presented a unique challenge for its owner. The upper-floor office tenancies were originally accessed via an open stair entry, a feature that not only detracted from the building’s prestige but also consumed valuable car parking space at 117 Harris St Pyrmont.
Type
Commercial
Location
117 Harris St Pyrmont NSW
Size
350m2
Refurbishment to Meet Market Demands
The client’s brief was clear: to revitalise the building and make the 350m² office tenancies market-ready for discerning, high-end tenants. This required more than just cosmetic changes. The scope for 117 Harris St Pyrmont included the creation of a new, appealing stair entry, a comprehensive refurbishment of the existing interior, and a full upgrade of all MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing) and fire services. The project also included the addition of a new ambulant toilet and kitchenette to allow for the future subdivision of the office spaces at 117 Harris St Pyrmont.
Studio PFA’s Comprehensive Role
Studio PFA provided full architectural services for 117 Harris St Pyrmont, overseeing the project from initial concept design through to the completion of construction. Our role included a detailed design development and the navigation of complex DA and heritage approvals, along with CC building approvals. We managed all tender documentation and processes and provided architectural and project management services throughout. A key part of our expertise was in expertly navigating building compliance requirements through performance solutions for accessibility and fire safety, ensuring the project for 117 Harris St Pyrmont met all modern standards.
Industrial Design Meets Heritage Charm
The core design solution for 117 Harris St Pyrmont was a striking, semi-open industrial-themed steel staircase, enclosed within a compact rectangular box. This new structure, defined by a steel grate facade, fire-resistant ACM wall panelling, and concrete block walls, was strategically designed to respect the building’s heritage. The new steel stair stringers were intentionally positioned against the original sandstone walls, which were then highlighted with up-down wall lights to create a beautiful juxtaposition of old and new. Navigating the narrow site access and minimizing disruption to the ground floor tenants were key challenges that the team successfully managed at 117 Harris St Pyrmont.
A Commercial Outcome That Delivers
The project was a resounding success, culminating in the building at 117 Harris St Pyrmont becoming fully tenanted shortly after completion. This project effectively showcases Studio PFA’s ability to provide a beautiful and functional architectural solution that perfectly aligns with market demands. It also highlights our expertise in working in partnership with key stakeholders and successfully navigating complex planning and building approvals, turning a challenging refurbishment into a commercially successful and aesthetically pleasing outcome at 117 Harris St Pyrmont.