State Savings Bank building, Commercial bank building in Martin Place, Sydney, Australia
The State Savings Bank building at 48–50 Martin Place is a Beaux-Arts bank and office block designed by Ross & Rowe and built by Concrete Constructions Ltd between 1925 and 1928. Its facade is clad in pink terracotta and red granite, with classical columns, and the building is known as the "pink palace" version of the Commonwealth Bank money box. Macquarie added a three-storey glass elliptical dome roof and two cylindrical central lifts in its 2014 refurbishment.
Construction started in 1925 after the Government Savings Bank acquired five adjoining land parcels and was completed in 1928. It was Australia's most expensive building upon opening.
The Banking Chamber and Grand Hall display marble finishes and ornate ceiling designs, representing the financial strength of New South Wales during the early 1900s.
The building now houses the headquarters of Macquarie Group following major renovations that preserved its architectural heritage. Accessibility and facilities were updated for modern use while maintaining visibility of historical features.
The building's nickname, the "pink palace", comes from a Commonwealth Bank money box issued in its likeness. Macquarie's 2014 refurbishment cost A$100 million and added a three-storey glass elliptical dome roof, a widened atrium through the office floors and two cylindrical central lifts.
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