Tony Owen Partners (TOP) has taken over the state significant mixed-use residential development at the former site of the Rachel Foster Hospital on Pitt Street, Sydney.
TOP has submitted a modification proposal to alter building height, GFA and façade treatment of the approved development which will see the old hospital transformed into a new residential hub for the South Sydney suburb of Redfern comprising 200-plus apartments.
Key features of the Concept Plan created by Lippman Partnership and the ensuing revised scheme prepared by Architecture and Building Works, included the retention and adaptive reuse of the existing heritage building and colonnade structure of the old hospital as well as the provision of three new buildings that will follow much of the existing hospital’s massing layout.
TOP have increased two of the buildings from four storeys to six, introduced new non-residential uses on ground level and significantly modified the façade detailing and building appearance of all the buildings.
It has been a decade since developer Kaymet Constructions bought the site, and 17 years since the hospital closed. It has since been subject to intense graffiti and concerns that its heritage elements were becoming dilapidated.
It is currently being assessed by NSW Planning.
A description of the proposed facade design below:
The facades consist of horizontal white bands of painted masonry to reflect the art deco heritage. These bands are often curved in plan to reinforce this character.
These bands are interspersed with areas of timber grain metal panel. This creates a patterning which introduces a diagonal movement which adds interest and articulation. 
Areas of horizontal timber louvres are also introduced. These areas provide privacy particularly between buildings and on the ends of buildings and balconies. 
The timber further softens the facades and adds earthiness.
Images: Tony Owen Partners
