The skyscraper that changed a city – and one man’s life

The Visionary Legacy of ICI House: A Beacon of Modern Architecture

ICI House, an iconic skyscraper in Melbourne, stands as a testament to visionary design and forward-thinking architecture. At over 40 meters above the height limit of its time, this building was only approved because of its commitment to public spaces—a rare feature in the mid-20th century. Designed to include a ground-floor garden, public car parks, and a top-floor cafeteria, ICI House broke away from the norm, where most buildings reserved such spaces exclusively for executives. This pioneering approach not only set a new standard for urban development but also redefined the relationship between corporate spaces and public access.

A New Era of Modernist Design

The success of ICI House inspired a wave of modernist buildings that combined towering structures with publicly accessible plazas. Developments like Collins Place, AMP Square, and the state offices at Treasury Place followed in its footsteps, creating vibrant hubs that merged functionality with community-focused design. Additionally, the building’s innovative use of open-plan office spaces, which encouraged social interaction among workers, became a model for future office designs. This shift marked a departure from the rigid, compartmentalized work environments of the past, embracing a more collaborative and inclusive approach to workplace culture.

The Architectural Genius of ICI House

The building’s design was nothing short of revolutionary. ICI House’s floor plan was “incredibly foresightful,” according to Philip Copolov, Bates Smart’s interior design director. By offsetting the office floors from the amenity block—which housed stairs, toilets, and other facilities—the architects created a more efficient and user-friendly space. This design not only maximized natural light and ventilation but also set new standards for floor-to-space ratios and building heights. “It really changed the whole notion of pop ratios and heights,” Copolov remarked, highlighting the building’s enduring influence on urban architecture.

A Landmark in Melbourne’s Skyline

For nearly two decades, ICI House held the title of Australia’s tallest building, standing at an impressive height that made it a beacon in Melbourne’s skyline until 1961. Its prominence was not just physical but symbolic, representing a shift toward modernity and progress in post-war Australia. Copolov, who later played a key role in refurbishing the building, described it as a “beacon cathedral on a hill,” a testament to its status as a landmark of its time.

Orica House Today: A Heritage of Innovation

By 2001, the explosives company Orica had become the building’s sole major tenant, and the structure was renamed Orica House. When Bates Smart’s tenancy elsewhere ended, Copolov sought a new home for the firm, and Orica House proved the “natural choice.” Under his careful stewardship, much of the building has been lovingly refurbished, preserving its heritage features while adapting to modern needs. As Copolov walks the halls today, he points out details like pre-cast concrete coffers—a necessity when technology couldn’t pour floors above the sixth level—and window-accessible gantries that allowed maintenance workers to clean the exterior. These elements speak to the ingenuity of the original design.

Open House Melbourne: Stories of the City

Orica House continues to connect with the public through initiatives like the Open House Melbourne Weekend. In 2023, the building’s old bank, now home to the Bates Smart gallery, will host an exhibition titled “Stories of the City.” This event invites Melburnians to share their personal stories, which will be displayed on the gallery’s walls. Open House Melbourne executive director Tania Davidge noted that this exhibition is a fitting tribute to the building’s legacy as a space for both work and community. From April 29, residents can submit their stories, and the event itself will take place on July 26 and 27. As Orica House stands as a living piece of history, it reminds us of the importance of blending architecture, community, and storytelling in the heart of Melbourne.