The development site comprises three legal titles, featuring a mix of six commercial structures and one residential building. Although all of the buildings on the site were constructed between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the built forms - except for the Stellin Building - underwent significant modifications in the mid-20th century. These changes were partly driven by the Petone Street Realignment Project, which required the relocation of two of the buildings.

The project team initially explored the possibility of retaining and redeveloping the existing structures. However, they ultimately concluded that most, if not all, of the historical value of the buildings had been lost and that the extent of the required redevelopment work to comply with the NZBC would be impractical and commercially unviable. Therefore, a decision was made to construct a new building that would contribute positively to the character of Jackson Street.

The masterplan strategy for the site, as well as the overall architectural language, was heavily influenced by the history and context of the site. To achieve this, the design team drew inspiration from the proportions, fenestration, and façade rhythm of the original historical buildings. For example, the team emphasized the horizontal language by utilizing material massing and negative detailing, which was informed by the historical cornice and decorative lines found on one of the original buildings.