test

Abian Tower

2017Brisbane, Australia

Abian Tower

Abian Botanic Gardens is Brisbane’s most exclusive residential tower. Each spacious apartment features glass curtain walls and stunning views of the botanic gardens, Kangaroo Point cliffs and Brisbane skyline.

Its continuously curving and gently tapering facade generates a smooth vertical form. This delicately articulated curtain wall of flush pewter glass with a subtle silver tint emphasises the three-dimensional sculptural quality of the building by creating a continuous skin. Like many buildings by Wood Marsh, it has no obvious front, rear or sides. Importantly, the appearance of the glass shifts according to the changes in light and colour of the sky, giving the surface a dynamic, ephemeral quality.

Details

  • Client

    Sunland Group [Sexty Design]

  • Status

    Completed 2017
an artist 's impression of a city skyline with a river in the foreground .
a tall building with a lot of windows is surrounded by trees .
looking up at a tall building with a cloudy sky in the background .

The challenge

We embraced a bold, unconventional approach to showcase its architectural elegance. Rather than relying on traditional, bright palettes often used in residential projects, we opted for a darker, moodier aesthetic. This approach re-imagines the building not just as a structure, but as a luxury good—an object of desire. The deep, rich tones create an atmosphere of exclusivity and sophistication, allowing the design's intricate details to emerge with an almost cinematic quality. By using shadow and subtle highlights, we crafted a visual experience that feels intimate and refined, evoking a sense of mystery and allure. This method transforms the perception of Abian Garden, elevating it beyond a mere architectural project to a statement piece, resonating with those who appreciate the finer things in life.

an artist 's impression of a tall building next to a river .
an artist 's impression of a spa with a curved ceiling and walls .

The designs

Two thirds up the tower, the shimmering form is cut asymmetrically, reducing the visual bulk. At this point, the facade breaks and reveals a two-storey apartment level with recessed glazing.

At the lower levels, the form flares out creating a dramatic canopy over the lobby and facility levels. Set in from the towers form, these levels are distinguished by clear glazing and large mangrove-like columns. Through these columns, glimpses of the shimmering, gold and green tiled lift core are revealed.

a bedroom with a bed , chair , mirror and large windows .
a kitchen with a black and white painting on the wall
three bottles of perfume are sitting on a table next to a vase of flowers .
a woman in a black dress is looking out of a window .

Key elements

Internally, the base of the building provides amenity spaces for residents and guests including a recreation level overlooking tropical landscaping. The cafe with its distinctive timber roof and the forest-like facade elements brings an additional scale to the arrangement.

The curved form and delicate articulation of the curtain wall contrast the rigid and rectilinear massing of the neighbouring commercial and residential developments. This allows the new building to stand apart as an urban landmark and also to provide a soft interface with the surrounding built environment.

a book is open to a page with a picture of a city and a bridge .
a black folder with a picture of a building on it .

Credits

Client: Sunland Group [Sexty Design]

Architects: Wood Marsh

Year: 2017

Photographs: Ross Honeysett, Isaac Marano, Peter Sexty, Phil Savory