The colloquially known ‘Tepid Baths’ is well remembered by generations of Hobartians as an institution with notorious but effective ‘learn to swim’ teaching methods. The site now accommodates a contemporary 25-apartment building over six levels with a secured basement car park, constructed over the former swimming pool on the rear portion of the site adjacent to the Hobart Rivulet. Our significant design contribution was to retain the heritage-listed red-brick building fronting Collins Street (previously slated for demolition) which has been refurbished as apartments on the first floor, with a dental consulting suite, and a cafe, on the ground floor. The primary access to the complex is through the original entrance.
The housing comprises 25 one, two and three bedroom apartments and the existing building is converted to office/retail use. The site issues of adjacent and overlooking neighbours, acoustics, flood risk, and access required careful consideration. Apartments utilize a ‘small footprint’ design, which maximizes spatial efficiencies but skilfully incorporates balconies, views and solar access for all units. The new building is woven around these constraints to maintain maximum amenity whilst retaining the significant heritage elements of the site.
The success of the proposed development was demonstrated by strong pre-construction sales of 22 of the apartments, which are now complete and occupied.
