A 35-storey hybrid timber tower has received development approval from the City of Perth’s Metro Inner Development Assessment Panel.
The proposed tower will deliver 351 built-to-rent dwellings, 64 short-term accommodation units, retail and dining tenancies, and 3,000 square metres of communal amenities. Designed by Rothelowman, the tower features a hybrid construction system that combines cross-laminated timber (CLT) with a concrete core and mass timber columns. The planning and landscape design for the project was undertaken by Urbis.
A communique from Rothelowman stated the hybrid timber system was selected to minimise the carbon footprint of the high-rise. The release noted that the project is targeting a five-star Green Star rating through the inclusion of timber, rooftop photovoltaic panels, “strategic landscaping to combat the urban heat island effect” and convenient access to public transport, walkways and bike paths.
In its statement, Rothelowman highlighted the generously planted ground plane as a defining feature of the project. This area features native trees and landscaped pedestrian links, which are intended to contribute to “a walkable and vibrant precinct.” Existing trees lining Stirling and Aberdeen streets will be preserved, helping to maintain the urban canopy cover of the precinct.
Principal at Rothelowman Kylee Schoonens explained that the inclusion of accessible green space at the ground plane helps integrate the precinct into the city’s fabric by “creating a natural pause point that invites people in, encourages movement and supports a more connected, walkable Perth.”
“It’s [the project is] a meaningful contribution to Perth’s Urban Greening Strategy – expanding inner-city bushland and using low-impact materials to ensure the project treads lightly while giving back to the city,” said Schoonens.
The project is expected to reach completion in 2028. This approval follows that of another hybrid timber tower approval in Perth in 2023 – a 51-storey building designed by Fraser and Partners, reportedly on track to become the tallest hybrid tower in the world.
Source: Architecture - architectureau
