The ROC | Smart Design Studio

Smart Design Studio was selected as the successful architect in a competitive process to design the concept for a new Rail Operations Centre for Sydney Trains. This complex project required the coordination of large teams of consultants and working with complex bodies of stakeholder with seemingly competing interests. It bought together 200+ people into one inner-city hub. The award-winning outcome was delivered on time via a novated contract. The surrounding masonry building typology was adopted and overlaid with references to other traditional railway buildings and structures. SDS conceived the building as an inverted pyramid which offers protected areas beneath its overhangs.
Security was paramount for the building that operates 24/7. The entire form has been enclosed within a massive masonry wall for structural support and security. Integrated skylights ensure daylight is not sacrificed for security in the vast control room.Bourne out of structural innovation, the arches work as substantial beams to support the heavy brick walls above and allow openings at the base, creating transparency at street level and a connection to the Green Square area.