500 Bourke Street, a robust modern brutalist building in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD has undergone a $160 million transformation thanks to an extensive retrofit project led by multidisciplinary design practice FK. The iconic 1970?s building has been revitalised around the theme of an Australian design story to celebrate its architectural heritage while updating it for the needs of modern tenants. 
Built in 1977, the 36-storey office tower was originally designed by Godfrey & Spowers and served as headquarters for National Australia Bank. In 1998, 500 Bourke Street was bought by property fund manager ISPT, who in 2019 awarded FK the adaptive reuse project. This initiative aimed to give the building a new lease of life while preserving and celebrating its original features.  The deep retrofit project set out to transform the building to improve sustainability, facilities, and rethink the way its tenants engage with the building. It has been successfully updated to become a PCA A-Grade building with Premium-Grade tenant services zone, with a six-star rating for Green Star Design and As-Built and NABERS. Supporting ISPT?s commitment to a low carbon future, 500 Bourke will operate from 100% renewable energy and has been carbon neutral both from day one of construction through to operation. 
“This project exemplifies an incredibly sustainable solution for our cities.” Nicky Drobis, FK partner and head of design said. 
“I have always admired 500 Bo...