Brisbane apartments by Cavill Architects lodged for planning approval

Plans for a “boutique” residential development in Brisbane’s Teneriffe, designed by local firm Cavill Architects for Frank Developments, have been lodged with Brisbane City Council.

Located at 26–30 Helen Street, the project, dubbed “Elena”, is intended to “draw together two defining sides of Teneriffe: the enduring character of its historic woolstores and the subtropical, landscape-led energy of neighbouring James Street,” a media release from the Frank Developments notes.

According to the developer, Cavill Architects’ “deep understanding of the inner-north and the distinctive character of this part of Brisbane,” shaped a highly site-responsive design, which interprets the woolstores’ “robust masonry facades, strong architectural rhythm and distinctive palette.”

Frank Developments project director James Strahan commented, “We’ve deliberately introduced natural materials and carefully articulated forms that echo the authenticity of the precinct while delivering a contemporary expression.”

The nine-storey proposal comprises 38 apartments designed for long-term owner-occupiers, with the mix weighted towards three-bedroom dwellings.

Landscaping carries across the design, with subtropical planting at the entry, and on the podium, facades, balconies and rooftop garden. Various private pools are located across the ground and rooftop levels, alongside a communal rooftop pool.

“We wanted the building … to have the permanence and craftsmanship of the old Teneriffe, but the openness, greenery and subtropical quality of Brisbane today,” said Frank Developments founder and managing director Frank Licastro.

An operable building envelope is intended draw cooling breezes and natural daylight into residences while providing protection from western afternoon sun.

The project is the developer’s fourth development application in the suburb.

“We’ve become deeply invested in this pocket, and with that comes a responsibility to think beyond the individual site,” Licastro said.

“By acquiring neighbouring sites, we’re able to take a more considered view of how buildings sit together, protect important outlooks, create appropriate setbacks and deliver design outcomes that strengthen the character of the neighbourhood.”