British architectural firm Wilkinson Eyre Architects (London) have been announced as the architects for James Packer's $1 billion Crown Sydney Hotel at Barangaroo.
The twice winners of the prestigious RIBA Stirling Prize were selected ahead of internationally renowned US firms
Adrian Smith and Gordon Gill (Chicago) and
Kohn Pedersen Fox (New York),
The selection panel was made up of representatives from Crown, Lend Lease, the Barangaroo Delivery Authority and the NSW Department of Planning and Infrastructure.
According to the Crown website, WEA's proposal took inspiration from nature and presented a complex architectural form that derived a sculptural form reminiscent of three twisting petals (see below).
Importantly, the shape of the upper and intermediate levels of the tower is designed to maximise views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House.
WEA's portfolio of architectural projects include the striking Guangzhou International Finance Centre which is currently the world's eighth tallest building, along with the Gardens by the Bay development in Singapore which features giant, sustainably-cooled conservatories.
As previously reported on TheUrbanDeveloper.com, Crown Resorts Chairman James Packer said he was extremely impressed with the high quality of the short-listed panel and highlighted the importance for 'breathtaking' design in such an iconic location.
“Sydney deserves one of the world’s best hotels...Crown Sydney will be the most iconic building constructed in this city since the Opera House.
“I want this building to be instantly recognisable around the world and feature on postcards and memorabilia promoting Sydney. That’s how you attract international tourists, create jobs and put Sydney on the map.”
