This 46-unit residential development, purpose-built for HousingFirst, is a six-level complex designed to meet the diverse needs of families, older residents, and people living with disabilities. Located near Balaclava Train Station, the development incorporates a variety of thoughtful features that enhance both its functionality and its connection to the local community.

The building includes a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom dwellings, catering to a wide range of residents. To replace the previous at-grade car park, a public car park has been integrated into the basement, ensuring convenience for both residents and the broader community. The ground level features a retail frontage, adding vibrancy to the street and providing essential services to residents and visitors alike. A standout feature is the private community terrace on Level 4, designed as a “veggie garden,” which fosters a sense of community among residents by providing a shared space for gardening and social interaction.

The development’s design pays homage to the local area through the use of masonry construction, with exposed concrete “pilasters” that front Balaclava Train Station, seamlessly blending the new structure with its surroundings. Sustainability has been a key focus throughout the project. The building features naturally ventilated corridors, integrated solar shading, and a high proportion of dual-aspect, cross-ventilated apartments, all contributing to reduced energy use and enhanced living comfort for residents.

The ground floor foyer includes a unique feature wall: an “inverse-Nolli Map” of the St Kilda/Balaclava vicinity, which serves as a striking visual connection to the local area. The map is complemented by lighting that color-codes four key character areas, with each color reflected in the four residential floors above. This thoughtful design element helps to create a sense of identity and belonging for each floor’s residents.

This development is the product of a successful collaboration between the City of Port Phillip, the Victorian Government, and HousingFirst. Together, they have transformed the site into a contemporary housing complex that not only meets the immediate needs of its residents but also integrates seamlessly with the local community. The result is a sustainable, inclusive, and vibrant living space that addresses the diverse needs of a cross-section of society.

Photography by Elizabeth Schiavello