First look: Boutique apartment development set for Kooyong
Kooyong doesn't often get many new apartment developments.
The last launch in the affluent suburb was in 2022 when Mansard, the development of 16 apartments inspired by French architecture, hit the market. Now that's approaching completion mid next year, there is set to be a new choice for off the plan buyers.
The new development, submitted to the Stonnington Council this week, will be smaller, just nine apartments across a four-level buuilding designed by the busy Cera Strbiley at 449 Glenferrie Road.
The building will replace an existing two-level block of flats and outbuildings.
Proposed is a mix of three two-bedroom apartments, four three-bedrooms, and two four-bedroom units. The mix is intended to address the high demand for two and three-bedroom apartments in Kooyong, particularly among buyers seeking housing options beyond the prevalent low-rise and single-residential houses in the area.
In response to feedback from the local council, several modifications have been made to the initial design.
The brick façade has been extended into the mansard roof to reduce the perceived bulk of the roof level and to enhance the building's recession from the street. The height and width of the roof dormers have been reduced to minimise their visual impact.
The pedestrian entry now includes an arbour structure to improve the sense of address and a similar structure has been added over the vehicle basement entrance to enhance the visual appeal of the northern façade.
To address privacy concerns, south and west-facing windows have been modified with 1,200mm fluted glass to prevent overlooking neighbouring properties.
Landscaping plans have been adjusted by realigning tree planting in the southwest corner to avoid interference with existing drainage infrastructure.
The site is situated in an established residential area with convenient access to a range of services and facilities. Kooyong Train Station is located 450 metres away, providing easy public transport options.
Educational institutions such as Scotch College and Auburn South Primary School are within proximity, as are recreational facilities like Kooyong Gardens and the Kooyong Tennis Centre.
Nearby shopping options include Woolworths Toorak and Woolworths Hawthorn East.
Architectural firm Cera Stribley emphasised in the support documents that the development seeks to meet the demographic needs of the area by offering housing options that are currently in high demand.
The project's design focuses on integrating with the adjacent parkland, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows to frame views of the surrounding greenery.
The building's exterior includes a marble shroud around the windows and metal finishes, aiming for a contemporary aesthetic that complements the natural environment.
