Is This Skyscraper Too Skinny? See the Astonishing Design That Could Change Australia Forever!
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Australia's major cities are familiar with innovative architecture and urban development. However, a new proposal has sparked a heated debate about the future of urban living in the country. Blueshore Development Group has put forward a plan that could see a six-storey 'pencil tower' rise from a plot of land in Alexandria, Sydney's inner west, that's as narrow as a parking bay. This controversial project has become a focal point for discussions on urban density, housing supply, and the changing skylines of Aussie cities.
The proposed building, which would house five luxury apartments, will occupy a mere 271 square meters. While the development aims to provide additional housing in an already densely populated area, it has been met with resistance from locals. Concerns range from the potential shadowing effect on neighbouring properties to fears that such a structure could set a precedent for future developments, altering the character of Australian cities forever.
The City of Sydney council is reviewing the proposal, with construction costs estimated at $5.8 million. While the 'pencil tower' may seem like a drop in the ocean when addressing the housing crisis, urban planner Liam Davies from RMIT University suggests that this 'nuanced' approach might become more common in our crowded cities.
'The issue is, either we build up or build out, and our cities have been building out for decades and then become big, sprawling masses. So I've got a lot of sympathy for the idea that we build up,' Davies told Yahoo News. He emphasises the need for a considered approach to urban development, focusing on increasing housing density around areas with good amenities such as shops, public transport, and parks.
As cities expand and the lack of housing becomes more pressing, developers are looking to repurpose once-industrial areas into residential zones. Success stories like Mascot and Green Square in Sydney show the potential of such transformations. However, with limited land available in desirable locations, 'pencil towers' might offer a solution to utilising small, underused lots in high-density suburbs.
The concept of 'pencil towers' isn't entirely new. Cities like New York and Vancouver have seen the rise of these slender skyscrapers designed to fit into tight urban spaces. However, introducing such structures in Australia raises important questions about the balance between maximising space and maintaining the quality of life for residents.
Members of the Seniors Discount Club, what are your thoughts on this architectural trend? Could 'pencil towers' answer our urban housing challenges, or do they represent a step too far in city living? How do you feel about the potential changes to the skyline and the character of your local area? Please share your opinions and experiences with us in the comments below. Your insights are invaluable as we navigate the evolving landscape of Australian cities together.
The proposed building, which would house five luxury apartments, will occupy a mere 271 square meters. While the development aims to provide additional housing in an already densely populated area, it has been met with resistance from locals. Concerns range from the potential shadowing effect on neighbouring properties to fears that such a structure could set a precedent for future developments, altering the character of Australian cities forever.
The City of Sydney council is reviewing the proposal, with construction costs estimated at $5.8 million. While the 'pencil tower' may seem like a drop in the ocean when addressing the housing crisis, urban planner Liam Davies from RMIT University suggests that this 'nuanced' approach might become more common in our crowded cities.
Plans for a six-storey 'pencil tower' apartment building in Alexandria, Sydney, are being scrutinised due to local pushback and concerns overshadowing future city landscapes. Credit: Google Maps
'The issue is, either we build up or build out, and our cities have been building out for decades and then become big, sprawling masses. So I've got a lot of sympathy for the idea that we build up,' Davies told Yahoo News. He emphasises the need for a considered approach to urban development, focusing on increasing housing density around areas with good amenities such as shops, public transport, and parks.
As cities expand and the lack of housing becomes more pressing, developers are looking to repurpose once-industrial areas into residential zones. Success stories like Mascot and Green Square in Sydney show the potential of such transformations. However, with limited land available in desirable locations, 'pencil towers' might offer a solution to utilising small, underused lots in high-density suburbs.
The concept of 'pencil towers' isn't entirely new. Cities like New York and Vancouver have seen the rise of these slender skyscrapers designed to fit into tight urban spaces. However, introducing such structures in Australia raises important questions about the balance between maximising space and maintaining the quality of life for residents.
