88 Walker Hotel and Office Building

< >

×

The 88 Walker Hotel and Office Building, designed by fitzpatrick+partners, is a significant new addition to North Sydney's skyline. Completed in 2023, this mixed-use development features a 252-room 4.5-star hotel and approximately 12,500 square meters of boutique commercial office space, making it the tallest building in North Sydney.

The design concept centers on a slender, dual-tower form that contrasts with its surrounding buildings. The project integrates the heritage Firehouse Hotel, a two-story former fire station now operating as a pub, with the modern 50-story tower. This juxtaposition narrates North Sydney's evolution from a colonial suburb to a vibrant commercial district​.

Occupying a constrained site, the building employs innovative engineering solutions, including a 9-meter cantilever over the heritage pub. This design not only preserves the historical structure but also maximizes the available space, creating a dramatic architectural statement. The cantilevered sections and slender profile allow the building to fit seamlessly into the dense urban fabric while providing extensive views over Sydney Harbour.

Sustainability is a core aspect of 88 Walker, with the building targeting a 5-Star Green Star rating and a 4.5-Star NABERS rating. Sustainable features include a high-performance façade, efficient HVAC systems, low-energy lighting, and optimal building management systems. The development also supports active transportation with extensive end-of-trip facilities for cyclists and connectivity to public transport.

The ground floor and lobby areas are designed to be dynamic and inviting, enhancing the public realm with retail spaces, a café, and seamless connections to surrounding laneways and transport links. The office floors start from level 25, offering flexible, light-filled spaces that cater to a variety of tenants, from healthcare to technology sectors.

Overall, 88 Walker is a landmark development that blends heritage conservation with modern design, contributing to the ongoing revitalization of North Sydney's CBD.