In 1962 Sydney welcomed its first highrise tower 33 Alfred Street Reborn is now undergoing a thoughtful $200 million restoration of Sydney first high rise that preserves its legacy while modernizing its infrastructure. A pioneering structure equipped with innovations like an automatic mail conveyor system and elevators reaching speeds of over 300 meters per minute. 
Architectural director Matthew Morel of Johnson Pilton Walker (JPW) reflected on the era of its construction:
“So many innovations we take for granted in building a skyscraper today. None of that existed then: building codes, safety standards – even the fire brigade was sceptical.”
The former AMP headquarters, now named 33 Alfred Street, avoided potential demolition during Sydney’s pursuit of a loftier skyline. Instead, it stands rejuvenated, nearing the completion of a decade-long restoration that showcases the careful blend of historic respect and modern ingenuity.
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$200M Restoration of Sydney First High Rise Tower
The refurbishment included replacing 200 massive façade panels, each 3.8 meters tall and 1.2 meters wide, and reinstalling its iconic flagpoles. Attention to detail has been paramount, especially in the recreation of the building’s original white tile walls. Morel explained, “The original mosaics were glittering and iridescent, really wonderful. One or two years later after the building opened, they started to fail… We said, as part of the refurbishment, they should remove the pebblecrete and reinstate a reinterpretation of those original tile walls.”
The new design maintains the signature silver columns, tartan-style aluminium framing, and gleaming gold glass panels that made the building an architectural gem. After rigorous consultation with planners and heritage experts, the team decided to reverse the original window pattern, enhancing the building’s views of Sydney Cove while preserving its striking appearance.
Cutting-Edge Craftsmanship
Central to the restoration was the development of custom glazes for the exterior tiles, created by Tichelaar, the Netherlands’ oldest ceramics company. This process helped recapture the shimmer and color of the building’s original mosaic façade, ensuring it could shine anew under Sydney’s sunlight.
Nicholas Wilkinson, Dexus’s general manager of office development, remarked on the redesign:
“What ultimately the design has achieved is maximising natural daylight, with floor-to-window vision glass still respecting the gold tartan or gold spandrels along the slab edge.”
Dexus, which took over AMP Capital in 2023, continued the project with head contractor Built, partnering with Mirvac to bring the vision to life. With completion expected by late 2025, the skyscraper is set to host major legal firms and other commercial tenants.
Sustainability at the Forefront
Highlighting the environmental benefits of the project, Lord Mayor Clover Moore lauded the decision to refurbish rather than rebuild, stating, “Construction is responsible for nearly 20 per cent of Australia’s carbon footprint, so limiting the impacts of demolition and construction is critical to reducing our emissions. By pursuing a refurbishment rather than a knockdown rebuild, AMP will have saved tons of carbon emissions.”
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This rejuvenation marks the final chapter in the transformation of Circular Quay, following other significant projects like the award-winning Quay Quarter Tower and the conservation of Hinchcliff House. The NSW Heritage Council is now considering the addition of 33 Alfred Street to the state heritage register, recognizing its historical and cultural importance.
With scaffolding coming down and final touches being added, 33 Alfred Street stands as a testament to Sydney’s commitment to blending its storied past with a sustainable future.
