If a building can reflect a company's culture, then the new South Tower at the corner of Bourke and Elizabeth Street, b|e South, would speak to cool elegance. It will not be a prima donna like some of the swanky and more ostentatious towers at the higher end of town but b|e South, which will be built in the heart of the Melbourne CBD, will have plenty of glamour.

Innovation and class

It will sit beside an older sister, to be renamed b|e North, at 385 Bourke Street, a stone's throw from the GPO in the heart of Melbourne. Unlike her older sister, however, b|e South will be a child of the new energy economy and design. As Charlotte Stratton, Regional Portfolio Manager for Colonial First State Global Asset Management, sees it, this building will have special appeal to tenants who want classy accommodation but without the frills and drama sometimes associated with flagship buildings at the top of Collins Street. Similarly, it will appeal to those who do not want to join the pioneers at the other end of town who will eventually write the history on "How the Docklands Was Won". b|e South falls softly between those bookends.

"b|e South will be cheaper than Collins Street but more expensive than the Docklands," says Stratton, who is in discussion with a number of tenants, interested in leasing space in this 25,000 square metre building. Its location and pricing are proving to be its key selling points. "It is exciting to see a new building of this size in the very heart of the city. That fact in itself future proofs its tenants."

Central and green

b|e South will be central – close to Flinders Street Station and within walking distance of all amenities, including restaurants, food courts and the retail giants – as well as innovative. The floorplate will be built to maximise use of perimeter space for natural daylight and views, while the deeper space to the centre will allow for social hubs and flexible support spaces. It will also be green. It will be designed to achieve 5 star Green Star and 5-star NABERS Energy ratings.

"When you combine these factors, you understand that what tenants will have is the perfect recipe for future proofing their businesses," Stratton says. "Your employees are in an A Grade building with impressive green credentials and they have access to shops, restaurants and all public transport options. In addition, the building will be side-core so employees will have uninterrupted views and space."

Rising just 16 levels tall, b|e South will be significantly shorter than b|e North that stands 41 levels high. It was built almost 30 years ago and on a 45-degree angle grid. The new tower will complement it without detracting from light or views. Stratton believes that in the future they will be known as the North and South Towers and will become bona fide members of Melbourne's elite buildings.