General University Area Updates and Rumours

[tomh009]

The render really looks awful, looks they didn't spend much on it.  But I think the design is decent.

From the urban design brief:

The proposed development integrates a number of design features aimed at improving the street edges and public realm surrounding the building. The podium and middle part of the building were conscientiously designed to provide a consistent street wall along Columbia Street West and Albert Street. The building podium is recessed at grade to extend the public realm into the private creating a seamless integration between the two. The ground floor uses are accessed from the streets and are glazed to provide visual connections with the streets. The extended pedestrian zone at grade can be used for spill-out commercial activities such as outdoor cafe seating that will increase pedestrian activity. Access to the building on Columbia Street is provided by a residential entrance and separate commercial entrances. Large windows at grade improve the level of visibility between the public and private realms and a welcoming environment for pedestrians. Thus, the physical and visual connections help animate the building edges along the streets.