Location: Level 2/1 The Esplanade, Perth WA 6000
Scope: Tower Canopy, Oculus Bulkhead, Pedestrian Link Soffit, Podium Canopy, etc
Completion Year: 2023
Architect: HASSELL
Builder/Contractor: Multiplex
Façade Engineer:Wood & Grieve Engineers (WGE)
ShapeShift Product: ShapeShell™-RT
The Chevron Tower at Elizabeth Quay, also known as 1 The Esplanade, is a landmark commercial development located at Perth’s premier waterfront precinct. The project is commissioned by Chevron Australia as a new headquarters to consolidate its operations in Western Australia, showcasing architectural excellence, environmental performance, and civic integration.
Located in Perth’s Elizabeth Quay, the 29-storey tower provides over 57,000 square metres of premium office space, accommodating approximately 3,000 employees. The building’s design focuses on sustainability, targeting a 6-Star Green Star rating and incorporating features such as natural light optimization and energy-efficient systems. Amenities include childcare facilities, a gymnasium, and retail spaces, enhancing the work environment for occupants.
The project also emphasizes cultural integration, with design elements reflecting the local environment and indigenous heritage. Collaboration with Whadjuk Noongar cultural advisors ensured that the building respects and incorporates aspects of the land’s traditional significance.
Purpose & Objectives:
Establish a world-class office tower that aligns with Chevron’s corporate identity and sustainability commitments.
Contribute to the revitalisation of Elizabeth Quay, reinforcing its role as a public, cultural, and commercial hub.
Achieve environmental benchmarks such as 5-Star Green Star and 5.5-Star NABERS Energy ratings.
Support long-term occupation with robust engineering systems, integrated design, and high indoor environmental quality.
The scope is broad and multi-disciplinary, with clear deliverables across architecture, engineering, and sustainability. Key highlights include:
Architectural Scope
Full design and documentation of a 29-storey commercial tower.
Integration of:
Façade systems with shading and daylight control.
Public and retail interfaces at the base.
Link bridges and canopies connecting public areas.
Interior public realm such as lobbies and atria.
Structural & Façade
Use of reinforced thermoset materials (ShapeShell RT) in external soffits, canopies, and public space cladding.
Coordination with Multiplex (builder) and WGE / BGE / façade engineers for structural tolerances and movement systems.
Complex Geometry & Material Interfaces
Double-curved and cantilevered canopy structures require precision fabrication and installation coordination.
Integration of ShapeShell™ RT panels demanded custom CNC moulding, tight tolerances, and allowance for movement.
Environmental Compliance
Achieving acoustic separation between tenancies and mechanical systems under tight NC levels (noise criteria).
Coordinating with multiple sustainability frameworks (Green Star, NABERS, Section J) simultaneously.
Urban Interface
Working within a congested civic site at Elizabeth Quay with high public visibility and limited staging zones.
Public space integration without disrupting pedestrian movement during construction.
Façade Coordination
Façade systems required precise alignment across subcontractor packages.
Movement joints, tolerances, and fixing systems had to be resolved without compromising appearance or weatherproofing.
Architectural & Public Realm Quality
Delivery of a visually striking tower with signature canopy and soffit structures fabricated by ShapeShift using ShapeShell™ RT.
Strong integration between architecture and landscape, including seamless public transitions through the site.
Technical Performance
Advanced reinforced materials used in canopies to reduce structural loads and eliminate corrosion risk.
Coordination with façade and structural engineers ensured robust wind, fire, and movement performance.
Sustainability
Designed to achieve:
5-Star Green Star Design & As Built
5.5-Star NABERS Energy rating
High acoustic comfort, air quality, and daylighting benchmarks
Project Delivery
Prefabrication approach minimised on-site complexity and installation time.
Coordination through BIM, 3D models, and 5-axis CNC production helped control tolerance and cost.
One The Esplanade stands as a testament to thoughtful urban planning and design, delivering a workspace that meets contemporary needs while honouring the past. Its successful realisation underscores the potential of collaborative efforts in shaping sustainable and inclusive urban environments.
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