A beloved 1970s landmark is on the brink of destruction, sparking a wave of nostalgia and a heated debate. Chatswood's iconic BMA skyscraper, a futuristic vision by architect Hugo Stossel, is facing the wrecking ball to make way for a towering new development.
Imagine soaring 13 levels up in an external lift to a rooftop restaurant, a thrilling experience for architect Peter Lonergan, who reminisces about this unique building. The Panorama building, as it's also known, holds a special place in the hearts of many locals, especially those who grew up on the north shore during its heyday.
But here's where it gets controversial: the building's fate is in question. A proposal to demolish it and construct the tallest building in Chatswood has been submitted. This has ignited a flood of memories and a campaign to save it. The rooftop's Chinese-style Moon Terrace restaurant was a local attraction, akin to a lunar adventure.
Social media has played a pivotal role in reigniting interest in Stossel's work. The Northshore Lorikeet and other online communities have shared stories of first dates, culinary delights, and the thrilling lift ride featured in a vintage advertisement. These personal anecdotes have brought the building's significance to the forefront.
Stossel, a Hungarian-born architect who fled Nazism, found refuge in Australia in 1939. His work, including the BMA building, has recently gained attention thanks to heritage consultant Rebecca Hawcroft and architect Paul Georgiades. Hawcroft's book, The Other Moderns, shines a light on migrant architects like Stossel, Seidler, and Buhrich, who have often been overlooked.
Despite its cultural significance, the BMA building is not heritage-listed. If approved, the demolition will clear the way for a 61-storey mixed-use development, potentially incorporating a neighboring block. The property is owned by a trust led by Lesli Berger, a commercial property magnate.
While Hawcroft acknowledges the challenges of preserving the building, she highlights the emotional connection people have with it. Georgiades, who grew up in a Stossel-designed home, believes some of his residential works are worth preserving, but he agrees that the Panorama building falls short of his best creations.
The debate rages on: should this piece of architectural history be preserved, or is it time to make way for the future? What do you think? Is it worth saving a building that evokes such strong memories, even if it's not an architectural masterpiece? Share your thoughts and keep the conversation going!
