(Apple)
Apple has unveiled the details of its plans to build its “most significant” store in the Southern Hemisphere at Melbourne’s Federation Square.
As early as November last year, it was reported that the US tech giant was in secretive talks with the Victorian Government to establish a $50 million flagship store in Federation Square, which already hosts a number of cultural attractions, including the National Gallery of Victoria’s Ian Potter Centre.
Now, both Apple and the Victorian Government have confirmed the deal, with Apple previewing its planned flagship project in Melbourne, and introducing a design concept aimed at complementing the original vision for the precinct.
“As Apple’s most significant store in the Southern Hemisphere, Apple Federation Square will create a new destination where the community can gather, shop, be inspired, educated and entertained,” Apple Australia said.
“Around the store, Apple will increase the public space within Federation Square through thoughtful planning and landscaping, greatly improving visibility and access to the Yarra River and making the precinct even more inviting and accessible.
For its part, the Victorian Government said it expected the new global flagship store to breathe “new life” into the precinct, revealing that the project will create nearly 500 square metres of new public space in the Square, with the proposed new building taking up less space than the Yarra building it replaces.
For Apple, the store will be the second such flagship outlet outside of the United States. The proposed two-level pavilion will have a sculptural quality, according to Apple, with wrap-around glass and balconies.
Apple Federation Square will also be powered entirely by renewable energy, create over 200 new Apple jobs and support several hundred construction jobs.
“We’re thrilled to move forward in the planning process for our new home in Melbourne’s Federation Square and would be honoured to call the world-class galleries and museums of Melbourne our neighbours,” Apple’s senior vice president, Retail, Angela Ahrendts, said.
"Apple Federation Square respects the original vision for the plaza, with a bespoke design concept and extensive landscaping bringing increased opportunities for the community to enjoy this renowned cultural hub,” she said.
Apple’s Federation Square store will also host top creators and high profile talent to lead sessions about how they use technology in their creative process and provide hands-on learning with participants that can only be experienced at Apple.
