Bulimba Apartments

This medium density development is located close to the Bulimba reach of the Brisbane River. Set amidst detached residential properties the site has street frontages on its east and west. Both street frontages are adjacent to parkland. As the site is currently being used for light industry the proposed development sought to take advantage of the amenity available in its inner city location.

The design seeks to respond to the surrounding built environment by separating the development into three distinct building forms. A row of townhouses face Bulimba street to the west. These continue the rhythm and scale of the streetscape. A slightly denser building block faces Banya street. This responds to industrial buildings adjacent the site, however this building mass steps down in height to acknowledge the existing houses to the south. A four storey building runs along the northern boundary, fronting an industrial lot. This building form shields the development from and allows the apartments on the upper floors to enjoy views to the river and city.

Between the three building forms a landscaped communal space provides for recreation and outlook. It allows the buildings to open to a green space which is an extension of the suburban backyards to the south. Along the southern boundary the buildings are setback to allow a public walkway to connect Bulimba and Banya streets. This allows connection between two parks and maximise the developments interface with the public realm.

Climatically responsive design decisions inform much of the unit planning. The units are open-ended units promote cross-ventilation. Voids allow hot air to rise and escape. Roof lights allow northern sun into units and glass balustrades and open plans allow light deep into units. The central green space cools the entire development.