The Alexander & Albemarle Buildings have Long Been Anchoring Elements
COX Architecture is awarded the Sydney Ancher Award for Residential Architecture – Multiple Housing for Alexander & Albemarle.
The work by COX Architecture on these well-known buildings has delivered a valuable contribution to Canberra’s apartment landscape and an object lesson in adaptive reuse, sustainability, and high-quality outcomes. It is fair to comment that the Canberra community was ambivalent about these landmark buildings, given their stripped functional expression and years spent unoccupied and derelict. COX Architecture’s interventions has revealed the fundamentally generous proportions and noble aspirations of these one-time Commonwealth office buildings.
The architectural resuscitation has capitalised upon the open northern orientation, substantial floor-to-floor heights and muscular concrete and masonry structure. Skilful retention of existing entries and features is both pragmatic and respectful of the original. Restrained materials selection, colour and detailing are appropriate to the heritage and the town centre location. Restraint is carried through to the interior design which delivers a clean industrial aesthetic.
Substantial new works are fully integrated and include communal areas and gardens, food and beverage outlets, parking, and landscaped spaces. The Alexander & Albemarle buildings have long been anchoring elements in the lived reality of the Woden Town Centre Masterplan. It is of great value to have them re-assume a lively and vibrant presence.
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