Campbell Heights
Site Context and Urban Integration
Campbell Heights sits within a transitional zone between the existing dense urban fabric and the softer, lower-density suburban fringe. The planning objective is to establish a distinct residential identity that respects the height of the neighboring buildings while providing a clear visual landmark. The site is oriented to maximize northern light exposure for the main residential blocks, and the massing is staggered to avoid a monolithic profile from the street.
The project activates the primary road frontage with a mixed-use ground floor, creating a permeable and lively interface. The buildings step back on the upper floors to preserve the skyline and allow light to reach the public spaces below. This approach reconciles the need for increased residential capacity with the desire to maintain a human-scaled streetscape.
Zoning and Density Analysis
The proposal is zoned for medium-high density residential, with provisions for ground-floor commercial use along the main thoroughfare. This dual zoning supports a 24-hour active frontage and allows the development to contribute to the local economy. The residential component is split into two primary blocks: Block A, the taller north-facing block with a higher floor-area ratio, and Block B, the shorter south block that mediates the height transition.
The density is calculated at approximately 85 units per hectare, which is consistent with the local master plan for the area. Each unit is designed to a minimum of 85 square meters of internal usable space, ensuring that the increased density does not come at the expense of living quality. The mixed-use ground floor is intended for a variety of retail and service uses, including small grocery stores, cafes, and a community workspace, which will serve both the new residents and the existing neighborhood.
Public Realm and Permeability
The public realm is a core component of the planning strategy. A pedestrian promenade runs the length of the site, connecting the two residential blocks and providing a clear path to the adjacent park. The promenade is flanked by pocket parks and seating areas, which function as informal social spaces for residents and passersby. The permeability of the site is enhanced by several pedestrian gateways that allow people to move freely through the development, rather than being forced to use the main road.
The pocket parks are also designed with a focus on biodiversity, featuring native planting and permeable paving. The seating areas are positioned to offer views over the promenade and toward the park, creating a safe and inviting environment. The use of high-quality materials, including textured stone and timber decking, gives the public realm a durable and welcoming feel.
Sustainability and Environmental Performance
Sustainability is integrated into the design from the outset. The residential blocks are designed to passive house standards, with high-performance insulation, triple glazing, and heat recovery ventilation systems. This reduces the energy demand for heating and cooling and improves indoor air quality. The roofs of Block A and Block B are both green roofs, which help manage stormwater runoff and reduce the urban heat island effect.
Rainwater harvesting is also included, with tanks collecting runoff from the roofs and promenade for use in the irrigation of the pocket parks and the green roofs. The parking area is equipped with EV charging stations, and the building services are designed to be fully electrified. The overall approach is to create a high-quality living environment that is also a responsible and low-impact development.