The project is substantial in its design. It required, amongst other skills, an artful bridging, in a figurative sense, between the spatial requirements of functions attended by thousands, and those of smaller events attended by only a few. It is thus a matter of size and human scale: the need for large functional spaces, yet also for warmth and intimacy; for a cohesive, overall image yet for variety and legibility. From the users’ point of view, the complex meets these demands remarkably well.
The quality of design of a building complex which presented numerous challenges from overall concept through to detail, is well considered, cohesive and logical. The stone-faced surfaces, wood panelling and glass, offset by exposed structural steel elements, all strike a good balance.

The building is flexible and modular, yet it does not give the impression of being repetitive. The scale of the indoor spaces is comfortable, even when empty. This is especially true of the triple level spine which forms a backbone, and the large indoor plant courts which assist with orientation.

Modern, international and cool, it makes for its varied purposes.
The complex is right alongside the city centre, appointing the rather dull Foreshore precinct with new purpose and in scale lending a sense of urbanity, using protected internal courtyards as extensions to the city scape and thereby creating protected city squares.
This is a first class “new boy on the block”.