project type: Apartments
location: West Perth, Australia
​area: 9,000 sqm.
status: Speculative
About:
The 303 West Apartments proposal was seen as a unique opportunity to create an example of medium rise housing that could be a model for future developments in West Perth in terms of quality of place, architecture and sustainability and will provide the basis for the growth of healthy communities.
The building presents its primary façade to Campbell Street as a 7 level, rticulated surface with the eighth level set back to create a stepped profile where the building meets the sky.
The ground floor is seen as a commercial edge set in a landscaped forecourt, suitable for low key shopfront activities not dependant on passing trade but still providing a level of day time activation.
Residential units from 1st floor upwards will provide street surveillance and introduce a mix of occupants, on a 24 hour basis, into an otherwise predominantly business street. Vehicular and pedestrian entrances have been set apart with the main entrance forming a part of the al fresco
terrace to the corner café located conveniently close to the junction with the rail line and the bike path.
The plan consists of two parallel 8 storey wings separated by a seven meter wide space, open at either end and to the sky. The walkways which flank each wing are partly enclosed by vertical slats made from recycled hardwood with Juliet balconies strategically placed at various points to provide access to stairs which interconnect each level down to the central court at 1st floor. This has enabled all apartments to benefit from natural cross ventilation, as well creating a central community space with landscaped planters providing a central court space for the apartment dwellers.
At ground floor 25% of the site has been landscaped, primarily along the diagonal northern boundary to provide play and rest areas, this also has the added effect of providing acoustic screening from the rail line. To further amelorate any potential noise from the rail line the north facades are constructed in brick faced concrete panels with windows being double glazed and all living spaces orientated away from the rail line. Each apartment has been designed with open plan living areas with generous, partially enclosed balcony spaces with adjustable solar shading blinds.