High class and high fuss on High Street: Carr Architecture's latest for Moda

The city of Stonnington is assessing a recent application across 835-853 High Street for boutique developer Moda. Accustomed to smaller projects in Melbourne's inner eastern suburbs, Moda has stepped up in scale for the proposed Armadale apartment project.

Moda's project lead Carr Architecture has, in turn, created a stylish 7-storey project housing 27 double bedroom and 8 triple bedroom apartments.

Apartments aside, 2 retail tenancies of 550 and 117 square metres are incorporated at ground floor across the site which spans 1,501 square metres in total, and has a High Street frontage of 50.6 metres. Costing $20 million to deliver, the development also includes a dual basement for 65 vehicles and 45 bicycles.

Carr Architecture's simple grid pattern, restrained finishes and ample greenery make for a visually satisfying design, although not all residents in the surrounding area share the same perspective.

The application has garnered 26 separate objections as residents voice their concerns over the intended project's scale.

The primary grievance against the development is 835-853 High Street's size and bulk, with a single storey dwelling abutting the western boundary. Elimination of natural light from certain aspects, lower amenity and a disregard for heritage features in the immediate area are also cited as concerns.

Objector concerns can essentially be summarised by one particular admission:

The excessive bulk, form and appearance proposed will adversely affect the significance of the adjoining heritage properties on New Street and will greatly detract from the outlook, character and appearance of this heritage precinct. Clause 34.01−8 states that the development should have 'regard to the interface with adjoining zones, especially the relationship with residential areas'.

The adjoining Neighborhood Residential Zone accommodates and anticipates lower density 1−2 story built form. The proposed development does not provide for appropriate heights or transition that suitably integrates with this lower rise, built form character.

Whilst many objectors were not against the site's redevelopment, they feel a more appropriate design is required. Conversely, the development team has referenced the adjoining built form which may act as height precedents.

Builder Hacer Group recently oversaw completion of 881 Armadale which holds 67 apartments and reaches 6 levels. Taller still is 863 High Street which sits between 881 Armadale and Moda's intended development, although 835-853 High Street will be even taller.

Advertising has just commenced for Moda's intended apartment project; a final decision is some time away.