A prominent designer asserts that the surge in disposable developments must be curtailed, with greater emphasis on the durability of these projects.
The same designer emphasised the importance of thoroughly contemplating the enduring impact of new developments and infrastructure, warning that shortcuts would lead to a cycle of ephemeral development.
Chrisney Formosa, the principal at Plus Architecture, expressed concern last year when a 12-story apartment building in North Melbourne, constructed merely five years ago, received demolition approval. This incident is just one of the average 100,000 buildings that are sanctioned for demolition in Australia annually.
“It demonstrates what can happen when a shortsighted approach to the urban planning of our cities takes hold – the proliferation of low-grade buildings with short lifespans,” she said
“As our population here in Brisbane grows and evolves, so too do the demands on our city.
“An approach which sees the built environment as disposable is concerning. Disrupting the established heritage and context of our cities, it’s also incredibly carbon-intensive, with far-reaching negative implications for our planet.
“While the construction industry continues to navigate the challenges presented by the ongoing turbulence of the broader economy, from rising material costs to labour shortages, cutting corners is not the answer.
“The cycle of disposable development must be stopped.
Formosa stated that the worth of buildings should extend beyond their immediate marketability and utility for their initial owners or residents.
“Instead, their long-term life must be at the forefront of our minds,” she said.
“Developers, architects and councils must work together to ask: How will this development continue to contribute and adapt to the city’s evolving needs for generations to come?
“Now more than ever, architects have an integral role in designing for longevity. Not just designing buildings in isolation, but putting forthright a commitment to placemaking and shaping civic precincts that will serve communities for decades.”
Formosa emphasised that architects should guide the entire project team through a process of consultation, development, and customisation of the brief instead of merely designing a solution that directly addresses the brief.
“Avoiding trends, the final design must be thoroughly considered and truly meet the needs of all stakeholders – developers, councils, sales agents and the local community,” she said.
“Significant consideration at this early stage must be given to the cost implications across all aspects of the project.
“With a rapidly growing population and the 2032 Olympic Games on the horizon — development in the city is rightly ramping up. But as it does, it’s critical that the long-term legacy of the new developments and infrastructure is deeply considered.
“The city will retain these spaces years after the Olympics have passed; they represent Brisbane’s future, and it is critical that as the architects, developers and placemakers of the city we take our role seriously. The decisions we make now will leave an indelible mark on Brisbane for decades.”
Formosa stated that it’s imperative for designers to collaborate with industry and regulatory entities, such as local councils and planning authorities. These bodies, in turn, need to cooperate among themselves to foster the sustainable growth of the built environment and infrastructure.
“Understanding the financial priorities of developers alongside the local government’s remit to deliver enduring liveable communities, architects are uniquely placed to take the whole project team on the journey,” she said.
“If we look to London, the legacy of the Athletes Village is an excellent case study of what can be achieved.
“Housing 17,000 athletes during the 2012 Olympic Games, the development has latterly been transformed into East Village – with over 2800 new homes, and 2000 more planned. Now home to about 6000 people, with extensive parklands, the community is served by a wealth of shops, bars, cafes and restaurants.
“As the urban fabric of Brisbane evolves, when designed effectively, it can produce seamless context-driven environments that connect communities, creating a true sense of place and identity for a city.”
Formosa declared that The Cullen is situated at Portside Wharf, which is a segment of the Olympic Games precinct.
“Designed by Plus Architecture, its heritage-inspired design combined with contemporary elements will be home to a hotel, apartments and hospitality spaces,” she said.
“Elsewhere in the city, at Kangaroo Point, two other Plus Architecture projects celebrate their iconic riverside location, with Rotherham Hotel providing stunning state-of-the-art facilities for guests, and River House raising the bar for luxury living.
“Together these developments will create an active, socially connected urban community in areas receiving increasing interest and demand for density.
“They demonstrate that when design and build quality is retained as a priority right from a project’s inception – high quality precincts that will serve our communities for many years are achievable.”