The DKO designs for Waterloo's newest apartment development
A local Asian developer has lodged plans for a four-storey, mixed-use development on Waterloo's Botany Road.
The project at 171B Waterloo Road, to be developed by Doublespace, will home 47 apartments and two retail spaces at ground floor level.
Situated in the newly developing area of the proposed Waterloo Masterplan and Green Square, which is currently undergoing revitalisation and regeneration, set to be home to around 7,000 new dwellings, as well as community, retail and office space.
Moments from new connections and public amenity, the development will also sit adjacent to the planned future Waterloo Metro Station.
The building along Botany Road is referred to as Building A, which will split into five even blocks, a nod to the current existing façade language.
Building B is along Cope Street, split into a block of three, with larger recesses on the ground floor to create ground-floor terraces.
Nestled amongst the current medium density housing to its east and future higher density housing, Cope Street takes on a residential and leafy character. Whilst Botany Road, is commercial and industrial and serves as a major arterial link in Southern Sydney.
The massing of each blocks breaks the continuous 50-metre street wall that is reminiscent of larger industrial and commercial blocks, to create a smaller, more human scale.
“At the heart of the scheme is an oasis, a relief to Waterloo’s urban environment, an oasis to live, work and play," the design statement by DKO read.
"Homes are nestled in a lush landscape with views through tree canopies and a ground plane as if it’s a a secret garden, a constant surprise where one can have a meal, meet others, work or for kids to play.
“The proposal is one that is a surprise within Waterloo, and most of all on Botany Road. Its garden spills out to its edges, softening even the harshest main arterial road."
With a mix of unit sizes and layouts, the dwelling typology will cater to a range of households and lifestyle situations, further diversifying the area. Higher ceilings and deeper balconies are featured in ground floor apartments, along with privacy planting to mitigate privacy concerns.
Each level of the two buildings will comprise two one-bedroom, 10 two-bedroom and one three-bedroom residence.
Central to the scheme is the integration of the landscape and the creation of a green oasis to the centre of the site. The proposal relocates the deep soil zone to the centre, allowing lush planting and large trees to flourish. Planting then spills to the facade and extends to the surrounding streets, softening the urban edges of Botany Road and connecting Cope Street.
The proposal is also well served by public transport with bus links, as well as being within walking distance to Green Square train station. All apartments are also fitted with bike storage and a majority, with a car space.
