The Judith Neilson Institute of Journalism and Ideas Journalism School contained two buildings; one heritage terrace-styled building and a more contemporary corner building. The heritage building was retained and restored whilst the contemporary building was demolished for a new building, which is sympathetic to the conservation and historical streetscape.
The new arrangement of the buildings boasts a formal lecture theatre, entertaining and presentation spaces, open-plan office areas, creative spaces, and several meeting facilities. A dramatic central stair connects all levels, and a custom lift provides an alternative vertical accessway.
The Journalism School was designed by leading Australian Architect Tzannes and comprises bespoke features including:
- Lecture room with a class 5 set curved plaster ceiling, 12mm thick custom brass and precast concrete curved window wall and 3.6 x 2.2m, high resolution LED wall.
- 12mm thick brass plate shopfront.
- Natural granite floor and wall stone finishes throughout bathrooms.
- Custom-made granite basins are carved from a single granite block.
- Solid and veneered American Oak joinery and bespoke furniture.
- Solid bronze detailing to interior elements.
- 25mm thick curved glazing on the southeast corner façade of the upper floors.
- Custom-made Italian curved face brick façade.
- Custom-designed and made brass garage door with a weight of 1.3 tonnes.
- Combination of solid bronze plate and brass panelling to awning structure on the corner of Myrtle and Abercrombie Street (Chippendale, Sydney).
- Bespoke steel frame internal partitions with curved glass; and
- Specialised lighting plus a photovoltaic renewable element
The Judith Neilson Institute for Journalism and Ideas is another carefully constructed design by one of the leading Sydney construction companies – Infinity Constructions.
Structurally, the project presented multiple challenges from a design and construction perspective. Many off form finishes were desired by the client and designers and custom formwork was developed to achieve these finishes. The site was very restricted from a spatial perspective, and this required careful planning to ensure that quality was maintained for the exposed structural elements.
The new roof to the contemporary building has a compounding curve and feature transition to the façade junction. The soffit is exposed class 1 concrete, and all thermal performance occurs on top of the concrete form.
The completed project showcases the beautiful, restored heritage features of the existing building. Original elements such as the lift motor assembly, timber trusses and beams are exposed, the original building signage and historical fabric were all restored and now provide the feature of the heritage building. The old and new meet seamlessly and complement each other in this amazing, inspiring, and unique development.
The project was crowned the joint winner at the 2021 MBA Excellence in Construction Awards in the category of Commercial Buildings (Up to $50,000,000).
Photography: Ben Guthrie, Martin Mischkulnig
Journalism School – Commercial Construction Project
At Infinity Constructions, we’re passionate about transforming visions into exceptional realities. As a leading Sydney commercial construction company, we take pride in tackling complex projects that blend heritage and modern design. The Judith Neilson Institute of Journalism and Ideas exemplifies our commitment to innovation.
This project involved the meticulous restoration of a heritage building alongside the construction of a sympathetically designed contemporary building. The result is a unique space boasting a formal lecture theatre, presentation areas, open-plan offices, and creative meeting facilities. A dramatic central stair and custom lift connect all levels, fostering collaboration and learning.
Why choose Infinity Constructions for your Sydney commercial construction project?
- Heritage Renovation Experts: We have the experience and expertise to restore historical elements while meeting modern building codes.
- Modern Design Innovation: We embrace complex architectural visions and develop creative solutions to achieve stunning results.
- Award-Winning Quality: Our dedication to excellence is recognized by the industry, with the Judith Neilson Institute receiving an MBA Excellence in Construction Award.
- Collaborative Spirit: We work closely with you and your design team to bring your vision to life.
Ready to build a Sydney commercial space that inspires? Contact Infinity Constructions today. We’ll turn your vision into a reality.
