Adelaide’s first skyscraper gets the green light by state commission assessment panel

Three years after plans for a $400m, 183m-tall tower were unveiled, a decision has been made on whether Adelaide will get its first skyscraper. Find out what it is.

Artist's impression of the Keystone Tower, behind the Grand Lodge, on North Tce. Picture: Supplied by Marriott International

The Freemasons have received planning approval to build the city’s first skyscraper standing 183m-tall behind its heritage-listed Grand Lodge on North Tce.

After a day of discussion and deliberation, the State Commission Assessment Panel on Wednesday approved the $400m development – a joint venture with the Pelligra Group.

Dubbed ‘Keystone Tower’ the 37-storey development will house the city’s first Westin Hotel, featuring 236 rooms, a wellness retreat and three-level observatory.

An artist impression of Keystone Tower overlooking Adelaide. Picture: Marriott International

Artist's impression of Keystone tower on North Tce in Adelaide. Picture: Marriott International

Artist impressions of Keystone Tower, on North Tce. Picture: Walter Brooke

“We are committed to creating a building that is both a modern marvel and a respectful nod to Adelaide’s heritage for all South Australians,” lead consultant Michael Baragwanath said. “This project promises not only to enhance Adelaide’s urban landscape but also to set a precedent for future developments in terms of pushing the envelope.

“We are listening to stakeholders to deliver a project that everyone can be proud of.

“As we look forward to the realisation of this landmark project, we hope that the Keystone Tower development is seen as a shining example of modern urban development done right.”

The Freemasons would continue to use the state-heritage listed Grand Lodge, with a large part earmarked for the Adelaide Museum of South Australia’s History (AMoSAH).

The museum, in partnership with the History Trust of South Australia, would also use five levels of the new tower.

An artist impression of the interior of a proposed Adelaide Museum of South Australia’s History as part of the Freemasons Keystone Tower. Picture: Supplied

Designed by Walter Brooke and Bara Consulting Group, the development had divided heritage advocates as the heritage-listed Great Hall building will be demolished to allow for the tower.

The approval was subject to a list of conditions and reserved matters.

It included the Freemasons entering into a heritage agreement with the Environment Minister to undertake conservation works to the Grand Lodge, built in 1927.

As part of the agreement, full documentation must also be taken of the fabric of the Great Hall, including drawings and 3D scan image, prior to the demolition works.

Once building consent is granted, demolition and preservation works would begin as soon as possible, with the original completion date set for late 2026.

There was a strong push for the building to be complete ahead of the original structure’s centenary in 2027.

An artist impression of inside Keystone Tower. Picture: Walter Brooke

Originally published as Adelaide’s first skyscraper gets the green light by state commission assessment panel