Sculptural and Timeless – Bridge 17 by Smart Design Studio

A 1980s rooftop addition to a heritage-listed sandstone building in central Sydney takes a new lease on life with Bridge 17, a light-filled, airy workspace by Smart Design Studio.

At once differentiated from the historic building while adhering to its classical proportions, the roof of this addition is dramatic in its shape and form. Reminiscent of a jaunty hat, with curves that hint at its contemporary derivations, the roof creates a protective shell over Bridge 17 and literally shelters its perimeter balconies.

Unusual for a building of this height, Bridge 17 also enjoys natural ventilation due to the balconies, with perimeter office spaces able to open up with sliding doors to the skyline views and welcome breezes.

Inside, this provides for some interesting plays on spatial design, with offices and conference rooms thrown open by the lofty, angled ceilings. Unusual for a building of this height, Bridge 17 also enjoys natural ventilation due to the balconies, with perimeter office spaces able to open up with sliding doors to the skyline views and welcome breezes.

Spaces are both sculptural and timeless, featuring light-accentuating rendered finishes and timber floors and panelling, contrasted with dense black joinery, fittings and furnishings. This simple, understated palette allows the angles of the spaces to take centrestage while reflecting the sandstone tones of the building’s exterior.

Smart Design Studio researched international best practice in workplace design in the creation of these flowing, user-friendly spaces. The result enables the enjoyment of this central Sydney location to the fullest while also paying respect to the building’s heritage.