The commercial potential of this constricted site has been maximised by cantilevering office space over the public space at ground level. Earthquake dampeners located at first-floor level support the building’s seismic resilience and continuity in a 1-in-500-year event. Maximum height restrictions and avoiding sea-level intrusion to the harbour-side site added complexity to the brief. The architectural response pays homage to the working-port location and neighbouring historic sheds in its scale, modern form, and use of similar materials and colours.