Finding balance between tree-lined village streets and being on the doorstep of the big city, Royal Ascot brings a new air of urban, leafy living to Ascot Vale
What was the project brief?
Royal Ascot sits on a prominent corner location in Ascot Vale, between the existing fine grain streetscape of Mount Alexander Road and the low scale, single residential neighborhood behind. The design needed to effortlessly bridge between the more industrial architectural vernacular opposite and the low-scale, suburban residential neighbourhood behind. Multiple setbacks on each side of the site created a challenge for the architects to present a design which was not overbearing and would not seem out of place.
How did the design tackle this challenge?
Plus sought to traverse these disparate architectural languages by presenting hints of each in the sweeping façade. The bold façade features red brick reminiscent of the traditional residences nearby which is elevated by large scale vertical panelling, referencing the larger scale, commercial buildings in the vicinity. These sharp features are then juxtaposed against the soft curvaceous forms of the generous balconies.
The curved façade and generous balconies are a defining feature of Royal Ascot, was there a deliberate design purpose for these features?
A key aspect of the site was that it met a variety of different boundaries and required different setbacks to meet the challenges of each. The mix of elegant sweeping setbacks interspersed with strategically placed planters were included to reduce the visual massing of the development from all aspects. The different features also create a building which is visually interesting whilst also meeting the demands of a variety of different boundaries.
Ascot Vale is typically popular with families and those living in single residential dwellings, how does Royal Ascot successfully meet the demands of its local community?
Royal Ascot responds to the neighbourhood-feel of Ascot Vale by providing a mix of larger apartments, with many of the residences offering either two or three bedrooms. The large balconies offer space for abundant planters allowing residents to create the traditional suburban garden but in the sky.
