# SOM Unveils Luxury Waterfront Development Design for Australian Pier The project transforms Geelong's historic Cunningham Pier into a major mixed-use destination. - **Source:** [Dezeen](https://www.dezeen.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-04 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/f62f3f07-32a9-40d5-9f7b-b1ef716db01a ## Historic Pier Transformation International architecture studio SOM has unveiled plans to redevelop Geelong's historic Cunningham Pier in Victoria. Originally constructed in 1855 to facilitate railway access for docking ships, the site currently serves as a parking area. This new project aims to convert the structure into a pedestrian-focused luxury waterfront destination for residents and visitors. ## Project Scope and Scale The 10,000-square-metre development is commissioned by Gurner Group and Costa Property Group. It will feature a 34-storey high-rise, which is set to become the tallest building in Geelong, surpassing the current 21-storey Miramar tower. The site will also include a 200-room hotel, 280 apartments, and 12 luxury waterfront villas with private berths. ## Architectural Design Philosophy SOM designed the tower with a trefoil plan, consisting of three combined cylinders that taper at both ends. The surrounding structures along the pier feature rounded edges and layered terraces. These design choices are intended to evoke the movement of water and marine forms, creating a cohesive aesthetic for the entire waterfront precinct. ## Public and Commercial Integration The development prioritizes public access through an elevated promenade that serves as the project's spine. Visitors will enter via a public square featuring water elements. The pier will host various shops, restaurants, and event spaces, effectively connecting the city of Geelong to the activities and views across the expansive Corio Bay. ## Ecological and Marine Focus Beyond luxury amenities, the project incorporates an ecological strategy to support local biodiversity. SOM plans to create new marine habitats around the pier structure. This approach reflects a broader commitment to treating the waterfront as a shared space that balances human public life with the preservation of essential local marine life systems. ## Preservation of Existing Structure The design strategy involves positioning new construction alongside the historic pier rather than replacing it entirely. By building an elevated promenade, the architects aim to preserve the existing structure below while creating a modern pedestrian environment above. This method ensures that the historical legacy of the 1929 refurbishment remains intact during construction. ## Recreational Waterfront Amenities The proposal includes diverse activity spaces and sports courts situated on floating platforms, enhancing the pier's utility. These features are designed to foster a neighbourhood atmosphere on the water. By integrating these recreational zones, the developers hope to establish the pier as a primary destination for both local Geelong residents and international tourists. ## Broader Context of SOM This Australian project follows other recent international unveilings by SOM, including a tiered skyscraper in Chicago and a 20-storey data centre in Kansas City. These developments highlight the firm's ongoing focus on waterfront urbanism and large-scale infrastructure projects, demonstrating a consistent design language applied across diverse global geographical and functional contexts. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.dezeen.com/2026/11/04/cunningham-pier-development-som-australia/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._