New building planned for Brisbane

Plans for a new building on Brisbane's James Street, designed by Koichi Takada Architects, have been lodged by developer Graya. According to the architect's design report, the project is envisaged as an "iconic retail and lifestyle destination" and as a "key bridge" connecting The Calile Hotel and the future retail hub at James Place further up the road, developed by Forme and Griffith Group and built by Graya, both designed by Richards and Spence.

At 30 metres high, the proposal at 54 James Street aligns itself with the massing of The Calile, replacing an existing single-storey commercial warehouse that's currently on the site.

The seven-storey design includes three retail levels at its base, three commercial office levels above and a landscaped roof terrace with a small hospitality offering on the top storey. Two car basement car parking levels are located below the building.

According to the architect's report, the concept for the proposal is centred around creating planted canopies that layer vertically "in order to evoke the impression of a grove of trees rising from the James Street streetscape." The report reads, "The building consists of stacked volumes, with extensive planted terraces protruding from each facade. Each volume is also wrapped in a series of concrete fins, providing articulation and visual interest and presenting a fine-grained response to the streetscape."

On the west side of the scheme, a proposed covered laneway provides access to a lift core and to a multi-level stair that ascends to the commercial floors. Seating areas within this laneway are intended to be surrounded by lush landscaping.

"The proposal integrates seamlessly into the precinct's vibrant fabric, offering a dynamic blend of commercial, professional and dining experiences," the report notes. "Together, these spaces embed 54 James Street within the very heart of Brisbane's social, creative and economic life."

The plans for the proposal can be accessed online.