We accept the city must expand and inevitably that will mean some vertical height increase. Therefore, we would support the proposed reuse and expansion option submitted as this is by far the most sustainable use of the existing building and site. However, it is yet another student living proposal and a lost opportunity to create real residential dwellings and permanent community in the city.
Reviewing the proposed height, we suggest that one floor is removed from the height so that it aligns better with Hartwell House and its neighbouring buildings. This would also help reduce the excessive overshadowing of the Victoria Street and Temple Street public areas. There is also an opportunity to create a better architectural treatment for the new extension or crown of the building. There could be a treatment that reflects the historic nature of the site`s architectural forms and relate better to the verticality of the existing elevation.
Ian Jenkins