Abian Tower

A shimmering landmark on Brisbane’s rapidly evolving skyline, Brisbane Tower is breaking new ground in residential design in the Queensland capital.

Its continuously curving and gently tapering facade generates a smooth vertical form. This delicately articulated curtain wall of flush pewter glass with a subtle silver tint emphasises the three-dimensional sculptural quality of the building by creating a continuous skin. Like many buildings by Wood Marsh, it has no obvious front, rear or sides. Importantly, the appearance of the glass shifts according to the changes in light and colour of the sky, giving the surface a dynamic, ephemeral quality.

The building offers spectacular views across the Botanic Gardens to the Brisbane River and the ocean beyond. Outdoor terraces are kept behind the glass facade creating relief from the elements and enabling a seamless extension of the apartments’ living areas.

Two thirds up the tower, the shimmering form is cut asymmetrically, reducing the visual bulk. At this point, the facade breaks and reveals a two-storey apartment level with recessed glazing.

At the lower levels, the form flares out creating a dramatic canopy over the lobby and facility levels. Set in from the towers form, these levels are distinguished by clear glazing and large mangrove-like columns. Through these columns, glimpses of the shimmering, gold and green tiled lift core are revealed.

Internally, the base of the building provides amenity spaces for residents and guests including a recreation level overlooking tropical landscaping. The cafe with its distinctive timber roof and the forest-like facade elements brings an additional scale to the arrangement.

The curved form and delicate articulation of the curtain wall contrast the rigid and rectilinear massing of the neighbouring commercial and residential developments. This allows the new building to stand apart as an urban landmark and also to provide a soft interface with the surrounding built environment.