Architecture Research & Planning

Cast Studio were commissioned to lead a team of consultants in the three dimensional master planning of a 1.3-hectare suburban area in Fremantle owned by a large housing provider.

The multiple sites will eventually yield approximately 90 dwellings, with a diverse mix of medium density housing types complemented by sustainable landscaping and generous social areas. The project aims to meet ‘best practice’ development standards, aspiring to be a One Planet Living community that provides superior levels of accessibility, diversity, sustainability and affordability.

Architectural Consultant for State Planning Policy 7.0 – Design of the Built Environment; State Planning Policy 7.3 R-Codes Volume Two (Apartments); and a Design Review Guide

Design WA publications: State Planning Policy 7.0 - Design of the Built Environment; State Planning Policy 7.3 R-Codes Volume Two (Apartments); and a Design Review Guide. The documents, which become operational on the 24th of May 2019, are a much-needed collection that establishes high-level principles for the design of our built environment, modernise the R Codes for better apartment design, and, critically, offer guidance for councils in the establishment and operation of design review panels. All three will assist Western Australia in achieving a high quality, sustainable and diverse built environment.

As collaborators on the drafting of State Planning Policy 7.3, and illustrators of much of its graphic content, we know how much effort, thought and passion went into the documents from all concerned. At Cast Studio, we congratulate all those involved, particularly the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage. As part of Design WA's second stage, we are now working on a comprehensive Precinct Design Policy with Urbis, as part of a multi-disciplinary team, and we look forward to its eventual publication.

Architectural Consultant for Part 4 – Designing the Building

Cast Studio (Formerly David Barr Architects) were engaged as part of a large team of professional consultants to take the lead role of the Part 4, ‘Designing the Building’ of the proposed new Western Australian Apartment Design Guide. The project demonstrates the ability to workshop and formulate complex information into clear and concise policies.

For more details on this research visit the WA Planning Commission Website. 

Local Policy Testing

The commission required rigorous testing and exploration of a proposed local scheme amendment that sought to promote moderately-sized infill housing in suburban areas in the City of Fremantle. This was facilitated through workshops with AUDRC and the City of Fremantle.