1 Bligh Street

Sydney

Set in the heart of Sydney’s financial district, 1 Bligh Street stands out for its graceful curves, creative use of glass and other features that make it both welcoming and among Australia’s greenest buildings.

The elliptical tower is oriented to offer the best views of Sydney Harbour. To preserve the view without resorting to heat-absorbing black glass, the architects designed a nearly clear, dual-skin façade. Computer-controlled blinds help meet the building's cooling requirements.

Inside, a soaring glass atrium, dramatically curvilinear in shape, brings sunlight and fresh air into the building’s core. The column-free floor plan ensures unimpeded views.

Otis designed and installed the building’s 15 lifts. The eight atrium lifts feature curved-glass walls – an exhilarating experience for passengers moving through the light-filled space.

Among the biggest challenges: the building’s curved lift shafts and the amount of glass involved. The hoistways are fully exposed, and the machine-room walls, floors and ceilings are also glass, making the lift equipment visible.

In keeping with the building's sustainability goals, we used recycled materials and low-VOC (volatile organic compound) solvents and paints.