Rising above the historic heart of Sydney’s CBD, Merchant House at 333 Kent Street is a bold testament to the future of sustainable office space and the art of urban renewal. FDC’s transformation of this iconic address redefines what’s possible when heritage meets innovation, delivering a 15-storey PCA A-grade commercial tower that elegantly crowns the original four-storey Merchant House – a building who story stretches back to 1888.
The project’s vision driven by collaborative owners Addenbrooke, Phoenix Property Investors, Super Ocean Group and Bridge Capital was ambitious: double the net lettable area to over 14,000m², restore the heritage façade to its former glory, and create a workplace that inspires, connects, and endures. Achieving this meant orchestrating a complex ballet of engineering and craftsmanship. The existing structure was meticulously stripped back, strengthened from the foundations to the roof, and then extended skyward with a new tower superstructure. Every detail—from the expanded core and new lift shafts to the glass curtain wall façade—was designed to harmonise modern efficiency with timeless character.
Inside, Merchant House welcomes tenants and visitors with light-filled lobbies, lush communal spaces, and the standout Level 4 Sanctuary—a wellness retreat featuring end-of-trip facilities, outdoor terraces, and amenities that elevate the workday experience. This sanctuary is more than a space; it’s a statement about the future of work, where wellbeing and flexibility are at the centre of design.
Sustainability is woven into every aspect of Merchant House. The building is targeting a 5 Star Green Star Design & As Built rating, a 5.5 Star NABERS Energy rating, and is prepared for WELL building certification for tenant interiors. Innovative construction techniques, advanced waste recycling (with 94% of waste diverted from landfill), and the integration of public art on the northern façade further underscore the owner’s commitment to environmental responsibility and community engagement.
The restoration of the original stone façade—including the reinterpretation of timber sash windows—honours the building’s rich history, while the new tower signals a dynamic future. Merchant House is not just a place to work; it’s a legacy project that bridges generations, revitalises the city, and sets a new benchmark for commercial construction in Australia.
Awarded the 2025 MBA Excellence in Construction Award for Best Commercial Building ($100M–$150M), Merchant House stands as a beacon of collaboration, ingenuity, and sustainable progress—a place where Sydney’s past and future meet, and where every detail tells a story of excellence.
Addenbrooke
Phoenix Property Investors
Super Ocean Group
Bridge Capital
WMK
Woods Bagot
BG&E Structural Engineers
