1970s Modernist Landmark is Reimagined for New Law Firm Tenants

First published on the ArchiPro website, 12 June 2023, written by Joanna Seton, ArchiPro

When Chow:Hill was engaged by Foster Develop to revive an iconic 1970s landmark building in Hamilton CBD, they were keen to secure a great anchor tenant. They pitched the idea of moving into 586 Victoria Street to established Hamilton law firm McCaw Lewis, who were excited to come on board, and wanted to time the opening of their new offices with their centenary celebrations.

Chow:Hill was thrilled to have them take the top two floors of the building; however, there was one very tricky provision: the law firm needed to move into their new premises in less than seven months.

“They had already given up their tenancy somewhere else and there was no extension possible with their current lease, so it was crucial to get them in on time,” says Chow:Hill senior principal Brian Rastrick.

The quick turnaround was already proving challenging when it was discovered the building’s original top floor, which was built as a light-weight structure on top of the main building, needed to be demolished and completely rebuilt.

Read more about this project at ArchiPro