Architect pair have vision for old space

TOWNSVILLE architects Mark Kennedy and Zammi Rohan are taking on their own design challenge after acquiring an old building in the CBD for their new premises.

The directors of Counterpoint Architecture are investing in a significant fit-out for the former showroom at 487 Flinders Street and concede they have a lot to live up to, given the eye-catching look of their current leased premises in Ingham Road.

That premises has a famed “green wall” featuring 800 hanging plants.

“We are putting a fair bit of effort into doing something unique. We are looking to incorporate some plantings and public art,” Zammi said. “It’s important. It’s how we present to the street,” Mark said.

They have contracted Citibuild to do the fit-out and first thing to go is a suspended ceiling, which has revealed the building’s original heritagestyle skylight.

They will also reveal some

the building’s brickwork

THE MARKET IS CURRENTLY SHOWING A LOT OF POSITIVITY IN THIS GREAT CITY...

of walls. Mark said that they would create a staff space and cafe-style lunchroom at the front of the building to bring some activity to the street edge.

“It will look alive and friendly,” Zammi said.

Zammi said that he felt it was important for them to move into the CBD and he encouraged others to consider a similar move to reinvigorate the area.

“We are bringing 13 people back into the CBD with our team,” Zammi said.

Agent Mark Fitzgerald of Knight Frank said the property needed a lot of work and vision so had gone to the right buyers.

“The market is currently showing a lot of positivity in this great city. Owner-occupiers are still very strong across most sectors and we are seeing great interest from out of town investors,” Mr Fitzgerald said.