Project Overview

Welcome to Pillar+Tide, sixteen contemporary residences where every facet of modern life intersects seamlessly. A place where past meets future, indoors meets outdoors, community meets intimacy, time meets timeless.

Nestled in Brighton, one of Melbourne’s most storied and sought-after suburbs, characterised by its beautiful gardens, tree-lined streets, and historic architecture, this idyllic locale provided the perfect canvas for Fortis’ inaugural Bayside project

Completed in August 2022 after 21 months on site, Pillar+Tide was 50% pre-sold prior to construction completion.

Organisation

Fortis

Team

Developer - Fortis
Architect - Carr
Landscape Architect - Acre
Interior Designer - Carr
Construction - Cobild
Project Manager - Neoscape
Photographer - Liz Keene

Project Brief

Designed by award-winning architects Carr, Pillar+Tide is defined by rhythmic façade elements, robust natural materials and an abundance of space reflective of Brighton’s local architectural context. Our aim was to pay homage to the existing fabric of Brighton by integrating the new and the old—contemporary details with hints of the traditional.

Inside, details are strongly articulated, from fine datum lines that carve through the walls in steel, and the striking swathes of natural stone that bring a feeling of bold durability. While all Pillar+Tide residences share the same design language and materiality, each is uniquely finished, fostering a deep sense of individuality. No two are alike.

Project Innovation/Need

Our design philosophy embraced minimalism, focusing on just two predominant finishes - raw render and blackened steel. This deliberate choice allowed us to accentuate the cohesive nature of the design elements, emphasising simplicity and elegance.

Positioned on a commanding corner site with extensive street frontage, we invested considerable effort to ensure Pillar+Tide would enhance, rather than dominate, the existing streetscape. The formality of the architecture was informed by the historic houses of Brighton. We then introduced a sense of playfulness to the contemporary composition by balancing robust forms against fine skeletal steel elements.

Beyond aesthetics, our team actively sought to preserve the site's environmental integrity. This involved retaining prominent established trees within the property and along public frontages to maintain canopy coverage and fauna habitat. Landscaping in courtyards, including terraces on upper levels, seamlessly integrates with the strategically retained mature trees, enhancing both the natural environment and the overall design.

Design Challenge

Despite facing significant competition in the Brighton market, Pillar+Tide garnered remarkable market acceptance and customer appreciation throughout its development and operation. Amidst the introduction of approximately 200 owner-occupier targeted apartments during its lifecycle within the Brighton market, Pillar+Tide distinguished itself by securing pre-sales before and during construction, with all remaining units sold out upon completion.

Despite challenges such as supply chain disruptions and the impacts of COVID-19 during the delivery phase, the project's equity investor returns remained largely consistent upon completion. This demonstrates the project's resilience and effective risk management strategies, underscoring our ability to navigate unforeseen challenges while maintaining financial commitments.

Sustainability

Pillar+Tide embodies sustainability through meticulous design and construction. With a focus on environmental impact and occupant comfort, each residence reflects our commitment to sustainability.

Orientation, layout, and materials are optimised for environmental and inhabitant well-being. Energy-saving features like three-meter-height double glazing and deciduous tree planting showcase our holistic approach. Achieving an average 6-Star NatHERS energy rating highlights our commitment to efficiency. Our use of natural and recycled materials, including engineered timber floorboards and marble, minimises our ecological footprint. The absence of hazardous waste underscores our dedication to responsible practices.

Pillar+Tide sets a new standard for sustainable urban living, blending sophistication with environmental consciousness.