The Ngunnawal peoples of Ngunnawal country
ACT
Named after a fossil found on site during excavation, Batocara is a point of difference in its streetscape. Utilising a modest 875m2 site, the complex comprises five townhouses: three two-storey plus basement designs and two three-storey plus basement designs, all with private courtyards and direct street access to entries.
The design is modest in scale, when compared to its blocky neighbours, as it uses a layered approach in materiality and building height. A combination of dark metal cladding and rich timber slatted cladding to the lower outer units and white metal cladding for the striking angular centrally located taller unit allows each dwelling to be identifiable whilst presenting as a coherent complex.
Delivering a missing middle typology, Batocara shows how density on standard blocks can be achieved whilst ensuring occupant amenity is of high quality and the streetscape remains textural.
Batocara has a sense of uniqueness about it; from its presence on the street to the sharp angled lines and textures used. We genuinely enjoyed the true collaboration with the architects in creating an inspirational project which has transcended past the usual inner north townhouse development. We gave freedom to our architects, and this has resulted in a higher quality outcome which illustrates the benefits of focusing on amenity over yield. We noticed that the distinctive design created a higher level of pride in the workmanship of the construction team, ensuing a better overall product for occupants and the streetscape.