Mika, South Beach

Multi-Residential + Retirement Living

  • Project

    Boutique multi-residential development of 38 apartments

  • Services

    Feasibility, full service architecture and interior design, marketing plans and 3D rendering

  • Location

    South Beach, Fremantle WA

  • Client

    Match Property

  • Date

    2015

  • Awards

    WA Architecture Awards 2016
    - Architecture Award - Residential Architecture - Houses (multiple housing)

Mika is a boutique residential development of 38 apartments situated in the new precinct of North Coogee, just south of Fremantle.

The project responds to current demographic expectations. Designed over 4 levels, it offers a choice of sizes and layouts in 1- and 2- bedroom configurations. Several are 2 storey duplex units, enjoying generous internal double height volumes and double height outdoor balcony areas.

The building volume is broken into three segments, bridging the scale between the smaller houses and larger apartment buildings nearby. The site’s shape allows each segment to address a different outlook. Courtyards and balconies capitalise on views, allow passive street surveillance and admit natural light. Openings between the segments allow for ventilation and sightlines from the common walkways to the surroundings.

Passive design principles facilitate energy conservation and occupant comfort, with cross-ventilation capturing sea breezes and minimising reliance on mechanical cooling. Sliding external perforated screens give visual privacy and solar control. This results in a dynamic façade, which changes as the occupants reposition the screens. Through careful planning, all condensers have been hidden from view.

The contemporary form and simple palette of materials and colours firmly connects the project with its historical and physical context. The apartments are clad in patinated copper for durability and low maintenance in the marine environment. Referencing traditional roofing materials, the copper will continue to improve with age, rendering colour and texture through materiality.

Jury citiation :
“The design of Mika is simple yet highly considered, resulting in an elegant and well-proportioned streetscape that creates a strong and distinctive presence among the sea of recent developments. The elegant use of oxidised copper screens in combination with bronze screens and balustrade details provide a well-composed façade. The development delivers well-planned spaces and quality finishes to all areas including the communal circulation and car-park spaces. There are a variety of apartment types, each well thought out, responsive to orientation and eminently liveable.”

2016_Award

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