The Lubetkin Prize winning Southern Cross Station reorganisation and expansion was the first project undertaken by Grimshaw in Australia.

As well as the transport interchange and associated track and signalling works, the redevelopment includes a major office building on Collins Street and a retail plaza serving the Central Business District’s west end.

The design, which was a collaboration with local practice Jackson Architecture, was driven by the need for practical performance, ease of passenger circulation and an improved working environment for staff with sheltered, high-quality ticketing, baggage-handling, and waiting services. These are all equipped with comfortable seating, lighting and passenger information display systems.

The design focus of Southern Cross Station is the dune-like roof that covers an entire city block.

The roof’s form plays a crucial role as part of the environmental envelope ensuring that it is symbol of sustainable architecture developed in response to the hot external climate and the internal need for diesel extraction and ambient cooling via natural ventilation.

The spectacular design of the new station, with full glass street frontage and the new Collins Street extension, will ensure that station becomes a new civic landmark for Victoria… This exciting project will breathe new life into the city and provide a long overdue facelift for its western edge.

Steve Bracks
44th Premier of Victoria, Australia