York & Co.

York & Co comprises two existing buildings - 32-34 York Street, a nine-story commercial building completed in 1886 with major facade alteration in 1964 - and 36 York Street, a five-story commercial building with a facade completed in the 1950s. The proposed new design of the building seeks to clarify the original layers of the building, articulate the existing elements of merit, and sympathise with the rhythm of the Victorian and art-deco façades along York Street through a new glazed facade. Demolishing 36 York St and rebuilding to match the height of its heritage neighbour, the façade will follow the existing rhythm of the street with different height windows while internally, the floor plates will level. A glazed curtain wall with vertical articulation and sweeping fins to a new proposed awning reference the fenestration break-up of the original 32-34 York street site, while red masonry brick will cover the facade of the original 36 York street site referencing its heritage layers. Internally, the workplace seeks to connect communities and spaces, and reinforce engagement and collaboration over automation and technology. The future workplace is designed to support our multilayered lifestyles, working part-time, from home, with a team and as an individual, especially in a post covid world. The anchor tenancy is split across four levels with a large spiral staircase connecting the floors. Two typical working floors achieve a 1:10 density ratio, while reception and wellness floors create spaces for quiet retreat, group participation and meaningful collaboration. Through flexibility and choice, this future workplace is a destination and a desired place to be.