The Carlile demonstrates how heritage can operate not as a constraint on urban development, but as the organising framework for a contemporary residential building.

Two historic shopfronts and a Victorian cottage are restored and retained along High Street, preserving the fine grain rhythm of the streetscape while framing a landscaped pedestrian passage that forms the residential entry. This discreet threshold recalls historic laneways once common to Melbourne’s inner suburbs, creating a moment of permeability within a dense retail strip.

Behind this heritage frontage, 13 apartments rise across six levels above activated retail tenancies. The new building adopts a sculptural curved form informed by neighbouring Art Deco architecture. Expressed slab bands establish horizontal datum lines while profiled precast panels and full-height glazing balance solidity and transparency.

Generous apartment planning, cross ventilation and landscaped terraces prioritise long term liveability.

The Carlile demonstrates how contextual sensitivity and contemporary architectural expression can coexist to deliver refined urban housing within a heritage streetscape.

Photography: Tom Blachford