AMBO UNIVERSITY

HACHALU HUNDESSA CAMPUS

DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE
ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN STUDIO IV
COMMERCIAL MIXED USED CASE STUDY

BEIMNET GIRMA
UGR /61567/14

INSTRUCTOR: DAGIMLEDET K & GEZU Y

SUBMISSION DATE: 27/12/2024
 TABLE CONTENT

Abstract……………………………………………………………………………..…1
Introduction…………………………………………………………………………....1
Site and Context Analysis………………………………………………………….….3
Site Constraints and Opportunities……………………………………………………3
Zoning and Layout……………………………………………………………………5
Sustainability Analysis……………………………………………………………….7
Highlighted Certifications……………………………………………………….….…9
User Experience ………………………………………………………………………9.
Comparative Analysis………………………………………………………………..12
Comparative Table………………………………………………………………..….15
Conclusion and Recommendations………………………………………………..…16
Recommendations for Future Mixed-Use Developments……………………………17
Referanc………………………………………………………………………….…..17
Appendices……………………………………………………………………….….17
Abstract

This report analyzes One Central Park in Sydney, Australia, as a case study in
successful mixed-use development. The study examines the project's architectural
design, urban integration, social impact, environmental performance, and economic
viability. Through a combination of literature review, site observation, and analysis of
publicly available data, the study evaluates the project's strengths and weaknesses,
identifies key design strategies, and explores its implications for future mixed-use
developments. Key findings include the successful integration of residential,
commercial, and public spaces, the effective implementation of sustainable design
strategies, and the positive impact on the surrounding urban context. This analysis
provides valuable insights for urban planners and developers seeking to create vibrant,
sustainable, and community-oriented mixed-use developments.

Introduction

This analysis aims to critically examine One Central Park in Sydney, Australia, as a
case study in successful mixed-use development. The primary objectives are to:

1. Evaluate the project's success in achieving a harmonious integration of

residential, commercial, and public spaces. By analyzing the spatial
relationships between these functions, this study will assess how effectively
One Central Park fosters a vibrant and interconnected community within the
development.
2. Assess the effectiveness of its design in fostering a vibrant and sustainable
community. This will involve examining the project's social, environmental,
and economic impacts, including its contribution to community building, its
environmental performance, and its economic viability.
3. Identify key design strategies and innovations that contribute to its
success. This analysis will focus on identifying the unique architectural and
urban design features that make One Central Park a standout example of
mixed-use development, such as the integration of vertical gardens, the use of
sustainable technologies, and the creation of a strong sense of place.
4. Analyze the project's impact on the surrounding urban context and its
contribution to the city's overall development. This will involve examining
how One Central Park has revitalized the Chippendale neighborhood, its
impact on local businesses and the broader urban fabric, and its contribution to
Sydney's overall sustainability goals.

Mixed-use developments have emerged as a crucial model for contemporary urban

planning, offering a compelling alternative to the traditional separation of residential,
commercial, and industrial zones. By integrating diverse functions within a single
development, mixed-use projects aim to create more vibrant, allowable, and
sustainable urban environments. They offer several key advantages:

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  Increased Convenience: Residents have immediate access to essential
amenities such as shops, restaurants, and entertainment, reducing the need for
extensive travel and promoting a more convenient and pedestrian-friendly
lifestyle.
 Enhanced Community Building: The proximity of various functions fosters
social interaction, encourages community engagement, and creates a more
vibrant and dynamic public realm. Residents are more likely to encounter their
neighbors and engage in spontaneous social interactions, leading to a stronger
sense of community.
 Improved Sustainability: By reducing the need for car travel and promoting
walk ability and cycling, mixed-use developments contribute to lower carbon
emissions and reduced reliance on private vehicles. They also encourage the
use of public transportation, further promoting sustainable urban mobility.
 Economic Vitality: The integration of commercial and residential spaces can
stimulate economic activity, generate employment opportunities, and
revitalize urban areas. By attracting residents and visitors, mixed-use
developments can contribute to the economic growth of the surrounding
neighborhood.

This analysis will employ a multi-faceted approach to evaluate One Central Park,
considering various parameters, including:

 Architectural Design: Analysis of building form, massing, materials, and the

integration of public spaces.
 Urban Design: Examination of the project's relationship to the surrounding
urban context, including its impact on traffic, pedestrian flow, and the visual
environment.
 Social and Community Impact: Assessment of the project's success in
fostering community interaction, social cohesion, and resident satisfaction.
This will involve examining resident surveys, community feedback, and
observations of social activity within the development.
 Environmental Performance: Evaluation of the building's sustainability
features, including energy efficiency, water conservation, and the use of
renewable energy sources. This will involve analyzing data on energy
consumption, water usage, and environmental impact.
 Economic Viability: Analysis of the project's economic feasibility, including
its impact on property values, rental rates, and the local economy. This may
involve examining market data, rental trends, and the economic impact on the
surrounding neighborhood.

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Site and Context Analysis: One Central Park, Sydney

Site and Context Analysis

Urban Context:

 Location: Chippendale, a historic inner-city suburb of Sydney, known for its

vibrant arts and cultural scene.
 Surroundings: Adjacent to the University of Sydney, close to the city center,
and within walking distance of public transportation.
 Existing Development: A mix of residential, commercial, and industrial
buildings, with a history of adaptive reuse and urban renewal.

Demographics:

 Target Market: Young professionals, couples, and families seeking a modern,

sustainable, and amenity-rich lifestyle.
 Lifestyle: Active, environmentally conscious, and interested in community
engagement.

Environmental Factors:

 Climate: Sydney's subtropical climate, with warm summers and mild winters.
 Sunlight: Abundant sunlight, particularly in summer.
 Wind: Prevailing winds from the southeast.
 Views: Potential for panoramic views of the city skyline and surrounding
areas.

Site Constraints and Opportunities:

Annotated Site Map:

SITE VIWE

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Key Constraints:

 Sloping Site: The site's topography presents challenges for construction and
landscaping.
 Adjacent Buildings: Views may be obstructed by neighboring structures.
 Traffic Noise: Proximity to major roads may require noise mitigation
measures.
 Heritage Considerations: The site's history as a brewery site may require
preservation of certain elements.

Key Opportunities:

 Panoramic Views: The elevated site offers potential for stunning views of the
city and surrounding areas.
 Sustainable Design: The site's environmental context provides an opportunity
for sustainable design strategies, such as solar power and rainwater harvesting.
 Community Engagement: The development can contribute to the
revitalization of Chippendale and create a vibrant community space.
 Green Space: The site's size allows for the inclusion of significant green
spaces, such as the central park.

Design Considerations:

 Building Orientation: To maximize solar gain and natural ventilation, the

buildings are oriented to face north.

 Vertical Gardens: The iconic vertical gardens provide shade, improve air
quality, and create a unique visual identity.

 Sustainable Features: The development incorporates a range of sustainable

features, including solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and green roofs.

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  Community Spaces: The inclusion of a central park, retail spaces, and other
amenities fosters a sense of community and encourages social interaction.

Zoning and Layout

One Central Park exemplifies a sophisticated approach to mixed-use development,

carefully integrating residential, commercial, and public spaces.

Vertical Zoning:

 Residential: Occupies the majority of the towers, with a mix of apartment

sizes and configurations to cater to diverse needs.
 Commercial: Retail spaces are primarily located at the base of the towers,
activating the street level and providing convenient amenities for residents and
the public.
 Public Spaces: The central park itself is a key element, extending vertically
with cascading gardens and terraces up the building facades.

Horizontal Zoning:

 Central Park: The heart of the development, providing a green oasis for
residents, visitors, and the surrounding community.
 Residential Towers: Strategically positioned to maximize views and
minimize overshadowing of the park.
 Retail Podium: Connects the towers and creates a vibrant street-level
experience.

Spatial Interactions:

 Vertical Integration: The vertical gardens not only enhance the visual appeal but
also provide shade, improve air quality, and create a unique microclimate.
· Horizontal Connectivity: The central park seamlessly integrates with the
surrounding urban fabric, encouraging pedestrian movement and community
interaction.

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· Residential Amenity: Residents have direct access to the park and retail spaces,
enhancing their quality of life and fostering a sense of community within the
development.

Diagram Illustrating Spatial Interactions:

diagram showing the vertical and horizontal zoning of One Central Park, illustrating
the interaction between residential towers, retail spaces, and the central park

Key Considerations:

 Maximizing Views: Apartment layouts are designed to optimize views of the

city skyline, the park, and surrounding areas.
 Natural Light and Ventilation: Building orientation and facade design
maximize natural light and ventilation in residential units.
 Accessibility: The development is designed to be fully accessible to people of
all abilities, with ramps, elevators, and other features.
 Sustainability: The integration of sustainable features, such as solar panels
and rainwater harvesting, is carefully considered in the overall design and
layout.

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Sustainability Analysis

One Central Park in Sydney is a prime example of sustainable urban development,

showcasing a range of innovative green building strategies.

Renewable Energy:

 Solar Power: Photovoltaic panels integrated into the building's facade and
rooftop harness solar energy, contributing to the development's electricity
needs.

 Helios-tat System: A unique system of movable mirrors reflects sunlight into

shaded areas, maximizing natural light and reducing reliance on artificial
lighting.

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 One Central Park Sydney with solar panels and hemostat system

Water Management:

 Rainwater Harvesting: Rainwater is collected from rooftops and utilized for

irrigation of the vertical gardens and other non-potable water uses.
 Recycled Water: Treated wastewater is employed for toilet flushing and other
non-potable applications, minimizing the demand for potable water.

Central park recycled water scheme

Material Sustainability:

 Recycled Materials: A significant portion of construction materials, including

demolition waste from the previous brewery site, was recycled and reused
throughout the building process.
 Low -VOC Materials: Low-Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) paints and
finishes were used to enhance indoor air quality.

Key Takeaways:

 One Central Park demonstrates a holistic approach to sustainability,

integrating a diverse range of green building strategies.
 The development's innovative design and technologies have set a new
benchmark for sustainable urban development in Australia and beyond.
 By prioritizing sustainability, One Central Park has created a healthier, more
environmentally friendly, and more livable community.

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Highlighted Certifications
I. LEED Certification:

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification demonstrates

the building's commitment to sustainability, energy efficiency, and reduced
environmental impact.

II. BREEAM Certification:

Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM)

certification signifies high performance in sustainability and environmental design,
focusing on various factors like energy, water, and waste management.

III. Energy Star Rating:

This certification indicates superior energy efficiency and reduced greenhouse gas
emissions compared to similar buildings.

IV. Green Building Certification:

General certification that ensures adherence to specific environmental standards,

promoting sustainable construction practices.

V. Indoor Air Quality Certification:

Assures that the building meets stringent air quality standards, contributing to a
healthier living environment for residents.
Smart Building Certification:
Recognizes the incorporation of smart technology for energy management, security,
and resident engagement.

User Experience
I. Accessibility

Physical Accessibility:

o Universal Design: Incorporate features like ramps, elevators, and wide

corridors to ensure easy access for people with disabilities.
o Unit Accessibility: Consider accessible unit designs with features like
roll-in showers, grab bars, and adjustable countertop.

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 o Sensory Considerations: Minimize noise pollution within the
building through soundproofing measures and consider features for
residents with sensory sensitivities (e.g., visual impairments, auditory
processing disorders).

Digital Accessibility:

o Website and App: Ensure the website and any resident apps are
accessible to people with disabilities. This includes features like screen
reader compatibility, adjustable text sizes, and sufficient color contrast.

II. Circulation

Internal Circulation:

o Clear Way finding: Implement clear signage and wayfinding systems

throughout the building to guide residents and visitors.
o Efficient Layouts: Design efficient interior layouts that minimize
travel distances and provide easy access to amenities.
o Elevators: Provide sufficient elevator capacity to avoid long wait
times.

Park Sydney shopping mall

External Circulation:

o Pedestrian-Friendly Design: Prioritize pedestrian and cyclist access

with well-defined sidewalks, bike lanes, and safe crosswalks.
o Proximity to Public Transportation: Maximize proximity to public
transportation stops (bus, train, subway) to encourage sustainable
commuting options.
o Vehicular Circulation: Plan for efficient vehicular traffic flow within
the development and minimize the impact of traffic on residents.

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III. Community-Building Efforts

Shared Spaces:

o Courtyards and Green Spaces: Design inviting courtyards, gardens,

and rooftop terraces to encourage outdoor social interaction.
o Community Rooms: Provide dedicated spaces for resident events,
meetings, and gatherings.
o Fitness Center and Recreation Areas: Offer amenities like gyms,
pools, and game rooms to promote physical activity and social
interaction.

Community Events:

o Organize regular events: Host resident events such as movie nights,

potlucks, and holiday celebrations to foster a sense of community.
o Community Gardens: Consider incorporating community gardens to
encourage interaction and a shared sense of responsibility.
o Resident Committees: Establish resident committees to provide input
on building management and community initiatives.

Sustainability Initiatives:

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 o Eco-friendly Features: Incorporate sustainable features like green
roofs, solar panels, and water-efficient fixtures to promote
environmental awareness and a shared sense of responsibility.
o Waste Reduction Programs: Implement programs to encourage
recycling and waste reduction among residents.

Key Considerations:

 Diversity and Inclusion: Ensure the design considers the needs of diverse
communities, including people of different ages, ethnicity, and socioeconomic
backgrounds.
 Privacy and Security: Balance the need for community with the need for
individual privacy and security for residents.
 Flexibility and Adaptability: Design the building to be adaptable to future
needs and changing lifestyles.

Comparative Analysis

Strengths

[Link]-Use Development

 Community Interaction: By combining residential and commercial spaces, the

development fosters a vibrant community atmosphere. Residents enjoy easy
access to shops, restaurants, and recreational facilities, promoting social
interaction and a sense of belonging. This integration encourages spontaneous
meetings among neighbors, contributing to a tight-knit community.

 Reduced Transportation Needs: The proximity of amenities lessens reliance on

cars, encouraging walking and cycling. This enhances residents' quality of life
and contributes to lower carbon emissions, while also decreasing traffic
congestion and making the area more pedestrian-friendly.

2. Sustainability Initiatives

 Energy Efficiency: The building incorporates renewable energy sources, such as

solar panels and energy-efficient appliances, helping to lower energy costs and
reduce the carbon footprint. This aligns with global efforts to combat climate
change and demonstrates a commitment to environmental stewardship.

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 Water Management: Advanced water management systems, including rainwater
harvesting and low-flow fixtures, minimize water consumption and promote
responsible usage among residents. These systems are vital for conserving
resources and educating residents about sustainable practices.

3. Innovative Design Features

 Architectural Aesthetics: The design balances modern architecture with

elements reflecting the local community's character. This thoughtful integration
enhances the building's appeal and encourages community pride. Using local
materials and design motifs helps the building feel like a natural extension of its
surroundings.

 Green Spaces: Incorporating parks, community gardens, and green roofs

improves aesthetics and provides residents with recreational areas that promote
mental well-being and biodiversity. Such spaces offer a respite from urban life,
encouraging outdoor activities and fostering a connection to nature.

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Weaknesses

[Link] Costs

 High Development Costs: Implementing sustainable technologies and

innovative design features can lead to higher initial costs. While these
investments may yield long-term savings in operational costs, they can pose
financial challenges during construction, making it difficult to secure funding or
attract investors.

[Link] Resistance

 Zoning Challenges: The mixed-use nature of the development may face

opposition from existing residents or businesses who fear increased traffic, noise,
or changes to neighborhood dynamics. Navigating zoning regulations and
community concerns can delay project approval and complicate the development
process. Effective communication with the community is essential to address
these fears.

4. Maintenance of Sustainability Features

 Ongoing Commitment: Maintaining sustainability practices, such as energy-

efficient systems and green spaces, requires ongoing investment and commitment
from both developers and residents. Without proper management, these features
may lose effectiveness over time. Regular maintenance and community
involvement are crucial to ensure optimal functioning.

Innovative Features

1. Smart Technology Integration

 Building Management Systems: The apartment incorporates smart technology

for energy management, allowing residents to monitor and control their energy
usage through mobile applications. This feature promotes energy conservation
and enhances user engagement, making residents more aware of their
consumption habits.

2. Community Engagement Programs

 Workshops and Events: To foster a sense of community, the development offers

workshops and events focused on sustainability practices, such as gardening,
recycling, and energy conservation. These initiatives encourage residents to
actively participate in their environment, enhancing community bonds and
promoting a culture of sustainability.

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[Link] Spaces

 Adaptable Use: The design includes flexible spaces that can be repurposed for
various activities, such as co-working areas, community gatherings, or fitness
classes. This adaptability supports diverse community needs and enhances the
building's functionality, allowing the community to respond to changing demands.

Comparative Table: Zoning, Sustainability, And Aesthetic

Differences

Criteria Zoning Sustainabili Aesthetic

ty
Definition Regulations Practices aimed at Visual and design
governing land use reducing characteristics of
types environmental the building.
impact.
Focus Supports mixed-use Incorporates Balances modern
development, renewable energy design with
allowing sources, efficient community
residential, water management, character and
commercial, and and sustainable pedestrian-friendly
recreational spaces. materials. environments.
Benefits Promotes urban Reduces carbon Creates an
density and footprint and appealing
community operational costs; environment that
interaction; improves occupant fosters community
enhances local health and comfort. identity and
economy. engagement.
Challenges May face resistance Initial Must balance
from existing implementation innovative design
residents or costs can be high; with preservation
businesses; requires requires ongoing of historical or
careful planning to commitment to cultural elements.
blend uses maintain
effectively. sustainability
practices.
Examples Designated areas Solar panels, Use of modern
for residential units rainwater materials alongside
above retail spaces; harvesting systems, traditional
parks integrated and energy- architectural
within the efficient features;
development appliances. landscaping that
enhances aesthetics
and sustainability.

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Conclusion and Recommendations

The analysis of Sydney Central Park underscores the multifaceted nature of successful
mixed-use developments. These projects, by seamlessly integrating residential,
commercial, and recreational functions, have the potential to foster vibrant and
sustainable communities.

Key Findings:

 Strengths: Sydney Central Park exemplifies the benefits of mixed-use

developments. Residents gain unparalleled convenience with immediate
access to amenities like shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Moreover, shared spaces foster a strong sense of community, encouraging
social interaction among residents.
 Weaknesses: Challenges inherent in mixed-use developments include
potential noise disturbances, particularly from adjacent commercial spaces.
Privacy concerns may arise from the close proximity of residences and shared
amenities. Furthermore, the long-term maintenance of common areas and
shared facilities can add to operational costs.
 Innovative Features: The incorporation of innovative features can
significantly enhance the appeal and sustainability of such projects. Examples
include:
o Vertical Farming: Integrating vertical farms within the building can
provide fresh produce, reduce reliance on external food sources, and
minimize transportation emissions.
o Co-working Spaces: Offering dedicated co-working spaces caters to
the growing remote work trend, providing residents with convenient
and collaborative work environments.
o Smart Home Technology: Implementing smart home features
enhances energy efficiency, security, and overall resident comfort.

Zoning and Sustainability:

 Zoning Regulations: Zoning regulations play a critical role in shaping the

development process. They dictate factors such as building height, density,
permitted land uses, and parking requirements. Careful consideration of
zoning regulations is crucial to ensure the project aligns with the city's vision
for the area.
 Sustainability: Integrating sustainable design principles is paramount for
creating environmentally responsible developments. This includes:
o Incorporating energy-efficient building materials and appliances.
o Implementing water-saving fixtures and rainwater harvesting systems.
o Utilizing renewable energy sources such as solar panels.
o Prioritizing green spaces and landscaping to mitigate environmental
impact.

Aesthetic Considerations:

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The aesthetic appeal of a mixed-use development is vital for attracting residents and
enhancing the overall quality of the built environment. The architectural style should
be thoughtfully considered, ensuring it complements the surrounding neighborhood
while creating a visually appealing and inviting space for residents and visitors.

Recommendations for Future Mixed-Use Developments:

1. Comprehensive Site Analysis: A thorough site analysis is crucial,
considering factors such as existing zoning regulations, transportation
infrastructure, community needs, and environmental sensitivities.
2. Community Engagement: Active community engagement throughout the
planning and development process is essential to address concerns, gather
valuable input, and build community support.
3. Prioritize Accessibility: Ensuring accessibility for all residents, including
those with disabilities, is paramount. This includes incorporating features like
ramps, elevators, and universally designed spaces.
4. Address Potential Challenges Proactively: Anticipating and mitigating
potential challenges, such as noise pollution and privacy concerns, is crucial
for long-term resident satisfaction.
5. Embrace Innovation: Continuously exploring and incorporating innovative
technologies and design solutions can enhance the functionality, sustainability,
and overall appeal of mixed-use developments.
6. Long-Term Planning: Developing a comprehensive long-term maintenance
and management plan is essential to ensure the continued sustainability,
viability, and appeal of the project over time.

Referanc

 Central Park Sydney Website: [Link]

 Frasers Property Australia: [Link]
 Ateliers Jean Novel: [Link]
 PTW Architects: [Link]
 Tilt Industrial Design: [Link]
 MDPI (Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute):
[Link] - Source for the diagram illustrating spatial
interactions.
 Wikipedia: [Link] - For general
information and a basic overview of the project.

Appendices

Appendix A: Site Plan with Zoning Overlay

 Include a map of the One Central Park site with overlays indicating zoning
boundaries and permitted land uses. This will visually demonstrate how the
development conforms to local regulations.

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Appendix B: Solar Access Diagram

 Include a diagram illustrating solar access to the site throughout the year. This
could include sun paths, shadow studies, and potential shading from
surrounding buildings.

Appendix C: View Analysis Diagram

 Include a diagram illustrating key views to and from the site, considering
factors such as surrounding buildings, street views, and potential visual
impacts.

Appendix D: Sustainability Features Table

 Create a table summarizing the key sustainable features of One Central Park,
including:

o Renewable energy sources (solar panels, heliostats)

o Water management systems (rainwater harvesting, recycled water)
o Material sustainability (recycled materials, low-VOC paints)
o Green building certifications (LEED, BREEAM)

Appendix E: Community Engagement Strategies

 Outline the community engagement strategies employed during the

development of One Central Park, such as public consultations, workshops,
and resident feedback mechanisms

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