Real Architecture: Grimshaw Architects Southern Cross Station, Melbourne

Grimshaw was appointed to work in collaboration with local Melbourne practice Jackson Architecture on the reorganisation and expansion of Southern Cross Station, one of the largest on-land transportation centres in Australia. As well as the transport interchange and associated track and signalling works, the redevelopment included a major office building nearby and a retail plaza serving the Central Business District's west end. The design features an impressive dune-like roof system. This roof creates a visual link between the city centre and new docklands, unites the interchange area and also provides a cool and shaded environment for commuters.

The winner of over 100 awards, Sir Nicholas's experience spans over four decades and follows in the great tradition of 'constructional architecture', taking inspiration from visionaries such as Sir Joseph Paxton and Isambard Kingdom Brunel. Grimshaw's industrial buildings of the 1970s and 1980s explored the very limits of space, structure and skin; this approach was embodied in the sinuous curved structure of the Eurostar Terminal at Waterloo Station, London. The Eden Project, one of Grimshaw's most renowned works took structural economy to another level: the transparent ETFE domes weigh less than the air they contain.

Speakers: Sir Nicholas Grimshaw, Chairman CBE PRA RIBA AIA; and Mark Middleton, Director
The conversation was chaired by Tom Dyckhoff.

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