Queen and Collins: A Big Winner for Melbourne

Queens & Collins has emerged as one of the year’s most awarded design projects. The collaboration between BVN and Kerstin Thompson Architects, picked up the Urban Design trophy over the weekend at the 2022 Melbourne Awards. These are the City of Melbourne’s highest accolade, celebrating people and projects that contribute to the city’s efforts to be a world leader.

Queens & Collins, a study in sustainable adaptive reuse, is a repurposing of three neo-Gothic heritage buildings in the heart of Melbourne CBD, as a contemporary mixed-use precinct.

The redevelopment of the landmark Gothic Bank complex has seen the former bank and stock exchange transformed into a lively commercial, retail and hospitality destination.

Originally built in 1933, the base building retains its dramatic, ornate cathedral ceilings, marble columns and stained glass windows. At ground level, a series of explorable laneways and intimate courtyards - the campiellos (Venetian “little squares”) - are an informal take on the traditional corporate lobby. They invite the public to linger and encourage conversation and collaboration.

The inside is a contemporary showcase of the sharing economy, featuring co-working spaces, bookable rooms, concierge services and 21st century office suites. Bold colour schemes and contemporary art brings style and energy. Sophisticated end-of-trip facilities support sustainable travel choices and luxurious pre and post work grooming.

The Melbourne Awards, now in their 20th year, recognise leaders in eight key areas (including Aboriginal Melbourne, Sustainability, Innovation, LGBTQI+ and Urban Design) that have made a resounding impact on Melbourne’s reputation as a thriving, forward-thinking capital city.

Earlier this year, Queens & Collins was the recipient of the AIA National Award for Commercial Architecture.