Illuminated Tower to Reshape Fortitude Valley Skyline

A dazzling new landmark is on the horizon for Fortitude Valley. Developers have submitted plans for an illuminated mixed-use tower to light up the inner-city skyline.



Photo Credit: DA A006612891

The proposed 28-storey development promises to transform a high-profile site on St Pauls Terrace, introducing a dynamic mix of residential, retail, and recreational spaces.

The ambitious project, put forth by a Brisbane-based entity with ties to Centennial Investments, envisions 164 apartments ranging from one to four bedrooms. Residents can access luxurious amenities, including a rooftop pool, gym, and dining areas. The ground floor will feature 415 square metres of retail space, adding vibrancy to the streetscape.

Photo Credit: DA A006612891

The design firm McFarland Architects, has crafted a striking curved structure enhanced by carefully planned illumination. This lighting scheme aims to highlight the building’s architecture and contribute to Brisbane’s “City of Lights” strategy, which seeks to foster a thriving nighttime economy.

The development’s scale and design have been meticulously considered to create an engaging public realm. Arched forms frame the podium, while a landscaped awning separates it from the tower. The project will also incorporate nearly 500 square metres of publicly accessible open space, contributing to the area’s walkability and vibrancy.

Photo Credit: DA A006612891

In 2020, the Royal Automobile Club of Queensland acquired the site for $9.35 million. The new tower will replace an existing three-storey office building and car park if approved.

The planning report emphasises that the project’s design and land uses reflect a high-quality subtropical aesthetic appropriate for the site’s location. We anticipate the development establishing itself as a landmark at a crucial intersection between Fortitude Valley and Spring Hill, thereby augmenting the area’s appeal.



Photo Credit: DA A006612891

The project’s potential impact on the local landscape has drawn attention, but it’s important to note that the political aspects of the development have received less attention. 

The tower’s anticipated architectural and economic benefits to Fortitude Valley remain the main focus.

Published Date 23-September-2024

Proposed Development to Reactivate Fortitude Valley’s Iconic Jubilee Hotel Precinct

A new development application has been lodged in a bid to rejuvenate the iconic Jubilee Hotel precinct in Fortitude Valley.

The proposal submitted by Jubilee Project (Qld) Pty Ltd involves construction of a 14-storey retail building and a 250-square-metre plaza accessible from St Pauls Terrace. The public plaza would unite the different spaces and distinctive buildings at the corner of St Pauls Terrace and Constance Street.

Central to the design is the heritage icon Jubilee Hotel, which will be retained and rejuvenated.

Ground floor plan of the proposed Jubilee Precinct (Photo credit: edqdad.dsdip.qld.gov.au)

Public Plaza

The plan for the public plaza includes a laneway connection to the Jubilee Hotel and the famous hotel beer garden. The plaza will be designed with an engaging landscaped space linking restaurants and other commercial spaces. The hotel beer garden will also be redeveloped as part of the proposed plan.

Proposed public plaza (Photo credit: edqdad.dsdip.qld.gov.au)

Approximately 18,166 square metres of commercial floor space, 91 carparks and club facilities will be included in the plan. Designers are using a distinctive cantilevered structure to remain respectful and sensitive to the heritage building on site. Since the precinct will be built above the M7 Clem Jones Tunnel, the plan is to use lightweight steel diagrid to address the weight limits.

The Jubilee Precinct proposal is built around the idea of commercial land use diversification and innovation and will include a start-up hub in the lower levels.

Photo credit: edqdad.dsdip.qld.gov.au

Designers are also taking advantage of the location advantage of the Jubilee precinct. The site is easily accessible from the Fortitude Valley rail station and the future refurbished Exhibition Station, which will be part of the Cross River Rail line.

Learn more about the Development Application.