History - Palace Tower

PROSPERITY, OLD-WORLD CHARM & INGENUITY

Rich with history

Palace Tower continues to connect the Perth skyline to a rich history of almost 200 years. With the site’s early years establishing the very fabric of premium service in Perth, the Palace Tower has been at the heart and forefront of Perth City’s evolution and continues to provide premium spaces which foster collaboration.

Take a journey through almost 200 years below.

1829

The site (corner of William Street and St Georges Terrace) becomes the first licensed premises in Perth and operates 1981 - 1895.

Image Source: SLWA: 014204PD: Freemasons Hotel, Perth, 1891-1895

1829

A heritage photo of the Palace Hotel in 1897 soon after completion.

1895

Designed by architects Porter and Thomas and described as “one of the most beautiful and elegant hotels in Australasia,” the opulent Palace Hotel opens during the Western Australian gold rush adjacent to the site of the future tower.

Image Source: SLWA: 011469D: Palace Hotel, Perth, 1897

1895

1972

Commonwealth Banking Corporation announced a plan to demolish the Palace Hotel and redevelop the site into a high-rise office building as Perth experiences significant and rapid growth from a resources boom. A dedicated group of people calling themselves the 'Palace Guards' campaigned to save the heritage buildings, halting the plans.

1972

1978

Businessman Alan Bond purchases the property from the Commonwealth Bank, beginning plans to redevelop the site retaining key elements of the heritage buildings.

1978

1981

Construction on Perth's most advanced tower begins, driven by designs from architects Cameron Chisholm Nicol. The architects were committed to showcasing the stunning views across the river and Kings Park in their designs.

Image Source: SLWA: 370059PD: The R&I Bank Tower under construction, Perth, 27 March 1986

1981

1988

Construction on the unique high-rise building is completed and named R&I Tower. It boasts a triangular design which stands out against the city skyline. It is Perth’s tallest building until 1992. The heritage Palace Hotel buildings are re-opened as a branch of the R&I Bank.

1988

1994

The State Government separated the Perth central business district from its surrounding suburban districts and created a new City of Perth. The R&I Tower changes its name to BankWest Tower to reflect the growth and evolution of Perth’s business sector.

1994

1995-2020

The building’s amenities and facilities continue to upgrade and modernise as technology improves, the city grows, and businesses flourish. With name and ownership changes during this period, the commitment to growth, evolution, and modernisation as evidenced in the continual investment in the building, remained a constant.

1995-2020

2022

Realside and Lendlease purchased the tower and commenced their plans to refurbish and reposition the asset to it’s prime position as one of Perth’s most iconic buildings.

2022

2024

Extensive upgrades commence to Palace Tower to transform it into a modern, sophisticated office building to reflect the needs of an evolving workforce and business community.

2024

PROSPERITY, OLD-WORLD CHARM & INGENUITY

1829

1895

1972

1978

1981

1988

1994

1995-2020

2022

2024

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