Tower Plans to Fill Fortitude Valley Void Make a Strategic Pivot

The new scheme designed by Nettletontribe supersedes previously approved plans for 628 build-to-rent apartments across two towers of 30 and 24 storeys.

But while the architectural plans identify the new proposal as “Wickham St BTR”—indicating it remains a build-to-rent project—the submitted planning report only refers to it as “high-rise residential apartments” and a “multiple dwelling”.

It has been filed by an entity linked to Asher Capital chairman Andrew King and TKM Capital managing director Tim Mahony, who were also behind the earlier approved scheme, and Tobin King Lateef senior partner Bede King.

Under the new plans, the tower would accommodate a mix of 180 two-bedroom apartments topped by a two-level penthouse sitting above a five-level podium with 194 carparking bays and 228 bicycle spaces.

Anchoring the proposed development is a 247sq m retail and food and beverage outlet designed to reactivate the long-dormant streetscape.

▲ Renderings of the new tower proposal for 186 Wickham Street and 23 Ranwell Lane, Fortitude Valley.

“The proposed site is a well-known landmark because of its vacancy of over 50 years,” the document said.

“On completion, this project will fill a void in the public realm and reinvigorate pedestrian activity along Wickham Street, enhancing the precinct and providing economic stimulus to the surrounding areas.”

The tower’s design draws inspiration from the precinct’s past, specifically referencing the historical Foy & Gibson Woollen Goods Store and the Rex Theatre.

“The architectural language is reflective of the contextual aspects of the site, the traditions, and the materials of the surrounds of Fortitude Valley…though reimagined in vogue,” a design statement said.

“Striving to capture the tactility and mood of the Valley, elected materials are moody and textured by nature, with dark pigmented concrete elements featured in the podium and tower, contrasting with patinable earthen hued metals and timbers.”

▲ A rendering of the new tower proposal’s five-level podium above which 181 apartments would be accommodated across 17 levels.

At ground level, an arched facade and slender canopy would provide a strong street presence, while upper residential levels would be set back to reduce visual bulk and preserve the scale of adjoining heritage assets.

“The proposal endeavors to invigorate Wickham Street with a higher quality residential development with supporting retail on the street level interface,” the documents said.

Crowning the proposed development is a 370sq m rooftop communal recreation zone featuring a lap pool, hot and cold plunge pools, a wellness spa with a sauna and steam room, a gymnasium, and outdoor dining booths.

“The development will increase the residential population within Fortitude Valley, support greater day-to-day activity, and contribute positively to local amenity,” a planning report prepared by Urbis said.

“By introducing a critical mass of residents alongside complementary ground-level uses, the proposal will enhance activation of the public realm and reinforce the Valley Heart Precinct’s role as a focal point for vibrant inner-city living.”