A tessellated glass facade and rock patterned precast concrete will reflect the beauty of the Cataract Gorge in Launceston’s next major hotel project.
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The JAC Group announced its initial plans for the site on the corner of Paterson and Margaret streets in August, 2016.
Managing director Dean Cocker said six architecture firms took part in a commissioned competition and the winner was Melbourne-based CBG Architects.
“A commissioned competition was the best way to obtain a range of different concepts so that we could select the best design for the site,” he said.
“We were also concerned that asking only one architect to prepare one design may not achieve the best result for us and the community.”
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A rooftop bar, conference centre, restaurant, gym, day spa and capacity for 130 rooms feature in the winning design.
The top two floors will include 5-star penthouse suites and the other accommodation will be rated 4.5 stars.
The planned hotel is nine-storeys tall and will require the council’s support to rezone the area.
“We will be seeking the same zoning and height that applies to the Silo Hotel which is limited to 40 metres above ground level,” Mr Cocker said.
A lengthy assessment criteria was developed to judge which of the six designs would be built.
The jury of Joe Chromy, Mr Cocker and two other JAC directors had a goal to build “a beautiful hotel as a legacy for Launceston”.
”The assessment criteria included philosophical response to the site, cost value outcomes, approach to innovation, end product marketability, construction methodology, fee value, relevant experience, and demonstrated ability to incorporate client feedback,” Mr Cocker said.
“Planning and design issues were assessed, including set-backs, visual impacts, height, streetscape, active ground floors, privacy, overshadowing, safety, access, parking, easements, views and solar orientation.”
Mr Cocker said the team consulted a range of people to help select the bid from CBG Architects including planners, landscape architects, construction managers, cost consultants, hotel operators and local government representatives.
If everything runs smoothly the estimated date of opening would be mid-2020.
Holly Monery
Holly Monery is a journalist for The Examiner newspaper, based in Launceston, Tasmania. Her main area of focus is local government.
Holly Monery is a journalist for The Examiner newspaper, based in Launceston, Tasmania. Her main area of focus is local government.
