Architecture news & editorial desk Plans by the Investa Property Group to demolish the landmark MLC Building in North Sydney and build a modern office complex in its place may come to naught, following the recommendation by the Heritage Council of NSW to protect the building. Considered one of the most important mid-century modernist buildings in Australia, the MLC Building on Miller Street was designed by Bates Smart and McCutcheon in 1954. At the time of its opening in 1957, it was the largest office building in Australia with a gross area of almost 42,000 square metres and a frontage of 100 metres. Investa had lodged a development application with North Sydney Council in July last year to demolish the block on Miller Street and build a 27-storey A-grade office building designed by Bates Smart on the 6,650-square-metre site to offer over 74,000 square metres of net lettable commercial space. The proposed $560-million development has significant environmental goals including being North Sydney’s first net zero commercial building. In addition to targeting 6 Star Green Star office design rating and 5.5-Star NABERS Energy Rating, the building is designed to provide natural light, ventilation and views, and will also generate renewable energy through a solar installation.