Courier Mail – Saturday 17th January 2015
A mixed-use residential tower now under construction in Woolloongabba is set to redefine urban laneways in Brisbane.
Developer Pellicano’s $85 million Trafalgar Lane project will bring a touch of Melbourne style to the Gabba. Residents of the 20 -level tower, along with the local community, will have access to 1,000sqm of retail space, with a pedestrian link at ground level. The concept has been designed by experienced Melbourne laneway architect Techne Architects. Director Justin Northrop said the laneway lifestyle would bring a cosmopolitan feel to the emerging precinct.
“The laneway, which connects Stanley and Trafalgar streets, will be the focal point of the building and an ideal setting for an eclectic mix of retail, restaurants and cafes,” he said.
“The laneway concept is thriving in the Melbourne CBD, which is a structured grid of primary roads alternating with service lanes. Historically, these lanes were utilitarian only; the precedent for their use as shopping and dining spaces was established by a number of Victorian arcades – narrow internal streets full of shops and cafes. More recently, Melbourne’s lanes started to be occupied by small interesting businesses.
“They are now bustling with activity and have made the city a more usable, layered space.”
Mr Northrop said Trafalgar Lane was designed to bring a service space to life. “Ducting and pipework isn’t concealed, gas and water meters are in chain link cages and traffic bollards and rails protect the buildings,” he said.
With raw, industrial finishes and warm timber, the laneway will provide a sophisticated setting for the eclectic retail, restaurant and cafe set to be part of this exciting new project.
“Woolloongabba already has a great feel about it and we are certain Trafalgar lane will add to the character and charm of the area. New residential development in the suburb is also attracting people to support the rejuvenation that is currently underway, and developments like Trafalgar Lane and Pellicano’s South City Square will contribute significantly to the overall urban renewal in the suburb.
Overlooking the Gabba stadium, just 1.5km from the CBD, Trafalgar Lane has 147 one, two and three-bedroom apartments and a five level podium with commercial and retail space. The apartments have ILVE appliances and ducted air conditioning.
The remaining apartments are priced at $412,500.
Construction is expected to finish in late 2015.
