Iluka Property Investments ATF Double Bay Unit Trust has submitted a proposal to Woollahra Council for a shop-top housing development at 35-45 Knox Street, Double Bay. This project involves demolishing the existing building and constructing a five-storey mixed-use complex with basement parking. Lodged on 20 December 2024, the application aims to revitalise a key site in the Double Bay Centre.
Overview of the Proposal
The proposed development combines retail spaces and residential apartments in a design that integrates with the character of the Double Bay Centre. Key elements include:
- Three retail tenancies on the ground floor.
- Nine residential apartments across four levels:
- Six two-bedroom apartments,
- Two three-bedroom apartments,
- One four-bedroom penthouse with premium features.
- Basement Parking: Two levels with 20 spaces for residents, visitors, and retail customers.
This proposal replaces a four-storey commercial building, including The Savoy Hotel and retail spaces. It seeks to align with the Double Bay Centre Planning Strategy to enhance the local streetscape and provide a modern mixed-use facility.
Artist impression by MHN Design Union
Site and Context
Located in the Double Bay Town Centre, 2.9km east of Sydney CBD, the site comprises two lots spanning 614.8m². It is bordered by Knox Street to the south and Knox Lane to the north. Nearby landmarks include:
- The Cosmopolitan Building, a six-storey mixed-use complex.
- Approved developments on Cross Street and Bay Street, with building heights of up to 22.05m.
The area features a mix of three- to six-storey developments, with retail on the ground floor and residential or commercial uses above.
Building Design and Features
The proposal by MHN Design Union adopts a modern architectural style that integrates with the surrounding streetscape. Design highlights include:
- Active Ground Floor: Retail tenancies face Knox Street and Knox Lane, fostering pedestrian activity.
- Setback Upper Levels: The top two floors are stepped back to reduce bulk and improve solar access.
- Landscaped Balconies: Greenery is added through planters and terraces on upper levels.
- Basement Parking: Accessible via Knox Lane, the basement includes 20 parking spaces and bicycle storage.
The building height is 17.97m, exceeding the Woollahra LEP’s 14.7m limit. The floor space ratio (FSR) of 3.2:1 also surpasses the allowed 2.5:1. The applicant has submitted variations to these standards, arguing the design aligns with the area’s evolving character and nearby developments.
Accessibility and Sustainability
The development prioritises sustainability and accessibility:
- Bicycle Facilities: Storage for 16 bicycles encourages cycling.
- Energy Efficiency: The project meets SEPP (Sustainable Buildings) 2022 targets for energy and water use.
- Flood Mitigation: Measures include floodgates and elevated floor levels to address the site’s location in the Double Bay Catchment.
Planning Compliance
The development complies with several local and state planning instruments, including:
- Woollahra LEP 2014: The site’s E1 Local Centre zoning permits shop-top housing developments.
- Double Bay Centre Strategy 2023: The proposal aligns with strategies to increase height, FSR, and active street frontages.
- SEPP (Housing) 2021: The design follows principles for natural light, ventilation, and privacy.
Traffic and Parking
The proposal incorporates a car lift for access to basement parking from Knox Lane, reducing disruptions to Knox Street. The parking allocation includes:
- 11 spaces for residents,
- 2 visitor spaces (1 accessible),
- 7 spaces for retail customers.
Additional bicycle and motorcycle spaces support sustainable transport options.
Landscaping and Open Space
Although there is no deep soil landscaping due to site constraints, the development includes soft landscaping on balconies and terraces. Private open spaces are provided for all apartments, enhancing liveability and reducing the urban heat island effect.
Flood and Geotechnical Measures
The site is located in a flood-prone area. A flood hazard assessment recommends floodgates and elevated floor levels for ground-floor tenancies. Geotechnical investigations confirm the site’s suitability for basement excavation, subject to standard remediation measures.
Benefits to the Community
The development offers several advantages:
- Economic Growth: Ground-floor retail spaces will support local businesses and provide job opportunities.
- Modern Design: The building enhances the Double Bay streetscape with contemporary architecture.
- Housing Diversity: The mix of two-, three-, and four-bedroom apartments caters to different demographics.
Project Team
- Developer: Iluka Property Investments ATF Double Bay Unit Trust
- Architects: MHN Design Union
- Urban Planner: GSA Planning
- Traffic Consultant: Greenview Consulting
- Flood Consultant: Bewsher Consulting Pty Ltd
- Geotechnical Consultant: Geo Environmental Engineering
For more information, search the application number DA2024/546.1 on the Woollahra Council’s website.
