District Living

A good neighbour 

Docklands has experienced some of the most intensive development in Melbourne, with many sites being maximised rather than optimised. As a result, the day-to-day living experience for many can be harsh. District Living takes a different approach, prioritising the human experience through the provision of open space.

The 1ha site will provide village living for over 900 apartments across three towers surrounding a central plaza. The project directly aligns with the vision and objectives of the Waterfront City East Development precinct plan.

Building forms have graduated heights, minimising shadow impacts on the adjacent Docklands Primary School, a new direct connection through the development to St Mangos Lane and the waterfront area has been established. High levels of public interaction at the ground plane have been created, ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for adjacent open spaces.

The project's massing and materiality has been developed to strike a balance between coherence and diversity. Thriving inner city communities are rarely monolithic, so creating a sense of visual diversity was critical. Articulated façades at street level further help to create a finer grain experience for people. 

Amenity at every level

The built-to-rent model provides an opportunity to provide shared amenity for residents. District living features a gymnasium and wellness area, and a sky terrace with kitchen and dining areas. A focused, quiet indoor working environment – known as 'The Studio' – will also provide a place residents can work remotely but outside of their immediate living space.

Sustainability

Targeting 5 Star Green Star and a WELL community platinum rating, the development has set the target of a 30% reduction in embodied carbon compared to the market average. Wellbeing initiatives for residents are provided throughout, with dedicated outdoor space includes family spaces, playgrounds, childcare, and areas to grow your own vegetables. Solar panels and water reduction systems offer another layer of sustainable living that will have a real impact on the residential community.