Arete Apartments

In 2017, Swanbury Penglase was approached by Peet to design a new 6-storey apartment building in Tonsley Village. The apartment was set to be tallest development in the residential estate providing a total of 28 dwellings comprising 1, 2 & 3-bedroom apartments.

The modest allotment had a steep grade from front to back creating many planning challenges including for site access and the planning of on-site car parking facilities. A number of parking options were explored including a multi-deck arrangement; however it was ultimately decided that a reduced number of on-grade parking spaces shall be provided. Car parking access was made available from the lower ground floor level from Alice Lane with separate public access provided from Eliza Place. Capitalising on the natural fall across of the site, the carpark is serviced by high-level grilles to provide natural ventilation avoiding the need for costly mechanical ventilation systems. Access from Eliza Place is via an external portico with stairs and ramps for disability access.

Designed around a central core, the apartment planning is highly efficient with minimum circulation corridors. Optimally proportioned, the apartments are planned to maximise access to natural light and ventilation with generous balconies and uninterrupted views.

The building is articulated through the design of projected balcony boxes and the application of painted squares to create a playful checkerboard pattern across the façade.