In the heart of Sydney’s inner west, a groundbreaking development named The Timberyards is set to redefine urban living while addressing the city’s pressing housing crisis. This remarkable $6.6 million mixed-use rental housing precinct, initiated by Rent to Live Co. (RTL Co.), aims to transform a once-industrial area in Marrickville into a vibrant and sustainable urban community. As Sydney’s largest build-to-rent (BTR) project to date, The Timberyards promises to offer not just residential units but also a multitude of communal spaces and amenities that cater to diverse lifestyles and socioeconomic backgrounds.
A Collaborative Vision
The design of The Timberyards is the fruit of a collaborative effort among several esteemed firms and experts, ranging from architects to urban designers. Aileen Sage takes the lead on public domain and art strategy, while Architecture AND, Tribe Studio, and Turner are the key players in the architectural design. Urban designer Matthew Pullinger, Yerrabingin for Connecting with Country, and Arcadia for landscape architecture complete this impressive team. Together, they envision a 22,771-square-meter development that includes seven buildings, each ranging from eight to thirteen stories. This ambitious project will bring a total of 1188 new dwellings to Sydney, including 484 BTR apartments, 115 affordable rentals, 589 co-living units, and an impressive 599 Livable Housing Australia silver standard apartments.
The collaborative vision ensures that each building within The Timberyards features distinct architectural characteristics, predominantly using brickwork to reflect the site’s historical and residential context. Historical industrial elements are seamlessly integrated with modern design principles, creating an homage to the area’s history while pushing forward into a sustainable future. The involvement of multiple stakeholders in the design process not only adds a layer of creativity and inclusivity but also enhances the project’s overall quality and coherence.
Integration of Historical and Ecological Elements
One of the standout features of The Timberyards is its dedication to integrating historical industrial elements and ecological regeneration. The public spaces within the development are meticulously designed to reflect the site’s original swampland ecology. This includes communal lawns, pocket parks, and a central walkway punctuated by a large mirrored gateway. Such elements aim to bring residents closer to nature, promoting a sense of community and well-being. The ecological design also emphasizes sustainability, an increasingly critical aspect in contemporary urban development.
The integration of these elements is evident in the careful planning of public spaces that are not just aesthetically pleasing but functional and environmentally friendly. The inclusion of communal lawns and pocket parks supports biodiversity while offering residents recreational areas that encourage social interaction. By reflecting the site’s natural history, The Timberyards creates a unique living environment that honors its past while addressing the needs of modern urban dwellers.
A Managed Community
The ambitious vision for The Timberyards extends beyond its physical structures to include long-term management and community engagement. RTL Co., a division of the development firm Scape, plans to manage the site indefinitely, ensuring that the curated facilities and amenities benefit both residents and the broader public. This approach to management is designed to foster a sense of community and ensure sustainable living conditions for years to come, making The Timberyards not just a place to live, but a place to thrive.
The ongoing management by RTL Co. promises consistency in maintaining the quality of the living environment and its amenities. This approach ensures that the development remains responsive to the needs of its residents, thus fostering a sense of belonging and continuity. The commitment to managing the site long-term also aligns with the trend toward more sustainable and community-focused urban developments, setting a precedent for future projects across Sydney and beyond.
Recent calls for public comment on the development application indicate a transparent and participatory approach to urban planning. This signifies not only a crucial step in the approval process but an opportunity for the community to voice their thoughts and contribute to the project’s success. It is a testament to RTL Co.’s dedication to creating a development that harmonizes historical context with contemporary living and sustainability.
A Future of Harmonious Living
In the heart of Sydney’s inner west, an innovative development called The Timberyards is poised to reshape urban living and tackle the city’s urgent housing crisis. This $6.6 million mixed-use rental housing initiative, launched by Rent to Live Co. (RTL Co.), aims to transform a former industrial area in Marrickville into a lively and eco-friendly urban community. As Sydney’s most extensive build-to-rent (BTR) project to date, The Timberyards will provide not just residential units but also numerous communal spaces and amenities designed to accommodate a wide variety of lifestyles and socioeconomic backgrounds. This groundbreaking project is set to become a model for future urban developments by blending modern living spaces with sustainable practices, offering a blueprint for other cities facing similar housing challenges and contributing to an inclusive urban landscape.
