Melbourne Buildings

One of the first commercial buildings completed in the Docklands precinct, construction of the headquarters for the National Australia Bank commenced in 2002 and the new building was opened in October 2004.¹ The complex was widely attributed to popularising the “campus style” office building in Australia that became common in Docklands and other new developments. Designed by Bligh Voller Nield, it became a new global headquarters for the Australian Big Four bank in 2009. The building was a leader in sustainable architecture at the time, making the most of its north facing aspect with a four star energy rating, becoming the first awarded by the Green Building Council of Aurstralia.²

The twin pavillion ten storey 58,000 square metre modern office building is separated by a large open atrium features coloured glazing glass and metal shades. The large industrial-like vent stacks are a feature of the roofline, reflected on the water, they are reminiscent of a power station like stacks of Battersea in London. The building features a retail space and the office entrance features a large set of revolving glass doors.