A three-tower residential complex in Brisbane’s Hamilton would create an improved connection to the Brisbane River, in contrast to recent “disorientating” developments in the Portside Wharf precinct, according to the scheme’s architects.
Fuse Architecture’s proposed scheme for 19 Hercules Street replaces two earlier multi-tower proposals for the site, the first approved in 2011 and the second, designed by Custance, approved in 2014.
The latest proposal would be delivered in three stages, the first stage being a 29-storey residential tower, retail podium and landscaped public forecourt.
“The recent developments of Hamilton have lacked consideration to its context and neighbouring site, especially at its ground level,” the architects state in planning documents now before council. “Buildings form physical barriers to the Brisbane River [leading to] disorientation in navigating the neighbourhood”
Platinum at 19 Hercules Street by Fuse Architecture.
By contrast, Fuse’s proposed complex, dubbed Platinum, would seek to “stitch together” its neighbouring precincts, creating visual connection between the new park and the Brisbane River and guiding the pedestrian as they walk through the site, “with the visual corridor opening up as they continue from the park to the river and vice versa.”
The design of the first residential tower is defined by the incorporation of a series of communal outdoor spaces, or “sky gardens,” scattered throughout the tower. The north facade of the building will act as an environmental screen that will shade the tower from solar glare and gain, while still allowing residents views out over the city.
“The open seams along the north will run the full height of the tower, forming a “vertical boulevard” of stacked outdoor balconies beginning at the green foot of the building and running through to the sky terraces,” the architects write.
The tower would house 153 apartments, broken down into 53 two-bedroom units, 49 three-bedroom units and 51 four-bedroom units. There would also be a pool and clubhouse with BBQ, planting and seating areas for residents.
