Bibbulman people of the Nyoongar nation
Western Australia
The revitalisation of 32 Ardross Street breathes new life into a 1960s commercial building, ensuring its legacy for the next 60 years. Led by Design Theory, the project champions adaptive reuse over demolition, enhancing the Applecross Village streetscape by prioritising pedestrians, improving shopfront activation, and fostering a walkable, community-focused environment. The design allows for increased tenancy area with new openings, covered walkways and landscaped pedestrian areas, creating a vibrant and welcoming public realm. A reconfiguration of extensive non-compliant parking was resolved to enhance safety while unlocking additional tenancy space. Sustainability is considered with an aim to prolong the material/building life cycle, with recycled materials and increased greenery enhancing the environmental performance. This transformation re-engages the community, offering a dynamic mix of tenancies within a human-scaled village atmosphere. It stands as a benchmark for local thoughtful urban renewal, proving that well-executed design can honor history while shaping a more connected future.
‘Working with Design Theory, we developed a vision to give 32 Ardross Street a new lease on life—ensuring it remains a vibrant part of the community for the next 60 years. Through a thoughtful and collaborative design process, we embraced adaptive reuse to enhance functionality while preserving its character. The revitalised space prioritises pedestrians, activates the streetscape, and fosters a more walkable, engaging environment. Expanded tenancy areas, improved shopfront visibility and integrated landscaping have transformed the site into a thriving hub, reinforcing its role as a social and economic anchor within the Applecross Village.’
Daniella Catalano, Project Architect
Evan Reeves, Director & Designer
SeeDesign, Landscape Consultant
Arup, Structural Engineer
ATA, Services Consultant
Cardno, Waste Management
Porter Consulting Engineers, Civil Consultant
PTS Planning, Planning Consultant
Claire Foxton, Artist
The Australian Institute of Architects acknowledges First Nations peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands, waters, and skies of the continent now called Australia.
We express our gratitude to their Elders and Knowledge Holders whose wisdom, actions and knowledge have kept culture alive.
We recognise First Nations peoples as the first architects and builders. We appreciate their continuing work on Country from pre-invasion times to contemporary First Nations architects, and respect their rights to continue to care for Country.
