Architectural Evolution – The Crossing by CHROFI with de Rome Architects and Dezignteam

Representing the evolution of Newcastle architecture, The Crossing combines a familiar material with contemporary detailing. Crafted by CHROFI with de Rome Architects and Dezignteam utilising Brickworks brick and masonry products, the development is defined by its structural integrity, echoing the surrounding built environment.

Settled opposite Newcastle Museum, between the civic town centre and harbour, The Crossing forms a seamless element of the urban landscape. The design brief acknowledged the built context – the former rail corridor positioned adjacent to the project site and the nearby Great Northern Hotel – and detailed a responsive building that reflects an industrial past. In addition, The Crossing required creative recognition of its contemporary status as a mixed-use development in a waterfront city. The use of bricks presented a logical means of addressing the brief, as the architects enjoy a long-standing relationship with Australian supplier Brickworks and, having collaborated with the company for many years, were familiar with the architectural impact of quality bricks.

In essence, The Crossing is a considered composition of four brick towers, placed on a large podium. Each tower encloses two sophisticated apartments per level, with each residence offering sweeping views towards the civic centre or harbour. Externally, the development showcases a dynamic interplay of punctured openings, textural brickwork and rugged greenery. At street level, a public verandah – framed by a brickwork colonnade – follows on from a cafe and restaurant, and the core of the building is occupied by a breezeway, providing residents with visual connection to the integrated landscaping.

Utilising materials from Brickworks brands Bowral Bricks and Austral Masonry, The Crossing achieves the dignity and strength of its original inspiration, the Great Northern Hotel. The Bowral Brick contribution takes the form of durable Chillingham White, a drypressed brick that has been featured in some of Australia’s most prestigious and historic buildings. Wrapped around the four towers of The Crossing, the bricks provide a timeless finish that complements the setting in both presentation and endurance. Balancing the Chillingham White are injections of Grey Block by Austral Masonry. Created using recycled content, the blocks align with modern-day environmental values while maintaining a hard-wearing surface. In addition, the Austral Masonry iteration of grey blocks entails a higher acoustic and fire performance than the standard industry offering.

Settled opposite Newcastle Museum, between the civic town centre and harbour, The Crossing forms a seamless element of the urban landscape.

Capitalising on the breadth and depth of the Brickworks portfolio, CHROFI with de Rome Architects and Dezignteam establish a material palette that engages with the historic buildings of Newcastle. The Crossing showcases the latest innovations in brickwork and thus effortlessly unites the past with the present.

Utilising materials from Brickworks brands Bowral Bricks and Austral Masonry, The Crossing achieves the dignity and strength of its original inspiration, the Great Northern Hotel.