Architectus has announced that the Smith Street Build-to-Rent (BTR) project has received Development Approval, marking a significant milestone in transforming a former public housing site into a vibrant, social and affordable housing community.

The redevelopment responds to Western Australia’s housing supply shortage and rising living costs and is part of the WA Department of Communities' broader Housing Diversity Pipeline.

"Inspired by the rich heritage and culture of Highgate, the Smith Street BTR project is grounded in three fundamental principles: connection, community, and quality. Our vision is to create an integrated, pedestrian-friendly precinct that blends into the existing urban fabric, fostering a strong sense of community and offering high-quality living experiences for all residents,” says Mark Black, Architectus Principal.

“This project will set a precedent and play a vital role in alleviating the strain on Perth’s rental market by offering a diverse, high-quality mix of social and affordable housing options.”

Developed by a consortium comprised of Tetris Capital and Community Housing, this project represents the state’s first private-public partnership to utilise a 52-year ground lease on state-owned land.

“The receipt of the Development Approval marks the latest key milestone achieved for the Smith St BTR project and we are delighted with the rate of progress toward construction commencement achieved to date. We demanded a truly exceptional design response for this trailblazing project and the design delivers. We look forward to accommodating a diverse and thriving new community in this inner-city sanctuary for the people of Highgate,” says Brent De Jong, Director of Tetris Capital.

Located at 49-67 Smith Street, Highgate, the mixed-tenure redevelopment will provide 109 apartments, 78 of which will be dedicated to social housing, 22 to affordable rentals, and seven specialist disability accommodation plus two on-site overnight assistance units.

There will be a mix of one-and two-bedroom apartments, along with communal facilities such as a rooftop edible garden, residents' lounge, courtyard, library and parking for 62 cars and bike storage.

The 4,962 square metres site is configured with two buildings, which are connected via an external stairway. This creates a permeable street interface and enhances the connection between residents and the broader Highgate community.

Informed by the historical character of Highgate, the three to four-storey buildings are appropriately scaled to seamlessly blend into the low-density neighbourhood with a façade language of brickwork and exposed concrete that complements surrounding heritage buildings.

With a strong focus on interweaving the landscape and built form, a central community garden sits at the heart of the project which serves as a green sanctuary for residents. This internal garden space is part of a broader landscape strategy that connects the site to the surrounding parks, including the beloved Hyde Park—a registered site of cultural significance for the Whadjuk Noongar people. The communal garden will offer a curated space for social interaction, physical activity, and relaxation, further promoting a sense of belonging and community.

The communal spaces seamlessly transition from the arrival lobby with the use of brick, pattern, and landscaping. The interior approach echoes this design language by incorporating earthy tones such as greens and terracotta while also integrating natural elements like sunlight and greenery to soften the interior environment.

Apartments are designed to provide a robust, modular, and functional living environment, emphasising natural light, airflow, and connection to outdoor spaces. Referencing the local surroundings, the selected materials are tactile and durable. The colour palette of muted greens from the Lemon Scented Gum trees retained on site, mid-tone blue referencing the sky and terracotta reflecting the bricks and bark, evoke a connection to the natural environment.

The kitchen and dining area will feature a light and fresh aesthetic, with integrated storage for a sleek, cohesive look.

The cabinetry will introduce pops of colour through laminate finishes, while neutral overhead cabinets balance the space. The bathroom combines neutral tones with accent hues, defined by datum lines and tonal finishes.

Each apartment is thoughtfully designed with a focus on longevity, efficiency, and inclusivity, ensuring that all residents, regardless of their needs, have equal access to high-quality living spaces. The development notably includes seven NDIS-compliant apartments, along with two onsite overnight assistance units for staff, providing essential support to residents with high physical support needs.

Embodying inclusivity and sustainability, the buildings are embedded with sustainable design features such as natural ventilation and solar PV cells.

The project also places a strong emphasis on safety and accessibility, with clear wayfinding, well-lit paths, and secure, designated resident parking and bike storage. The open spaces are designed to encourage natural surveillance and promote a safe and welcoming environment for all.

The Smith Street BTR project will be undertaken in three stages, the first stage of demolition and associated site readiness works are expected to be completed in early 2025.

Render: WA’s first social and affordable Build-to-Rent/Architectus

Clémence Carayol

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