Residents of Sydney's Altair apartments are embroiled in a dispute over a proposed redesign. The new design, presented by developer's representative Michael Esber, features glass bricks and differs significantly from the initial concept by architect, Moore.
Residents expressed concerns that the new design, described as resembling an outdated Commonwealth Bank building, lacks the promised luxury. The decision to replace Moore, the original architect, was attributed to rising costs. The lack of exterior finish details in the presented concept is another point of contention.
Esber defended the glass brick design, highlighting its benefits regarding natural light, security, and privacy. He stated that the design is a concept and residents' feedback will be considered. However, he declined further comment to the Herald after the meeting.
Following a contentious meeting, a motion regarding the new design was blocked by the strata committee members, David Saul and Ralf Harding.
Cameron Gray, a resident of Altair for a decade, said the concepts presented to the meeting by the developer’s representative, Michael Esber, looked like a “Pinterest board”. “I work in advertising,” he said. “You wouldn’t get that through a client.”
Gray said what Esber showed resembled a Commonwealth Bank building built in glass boxes from decades ago.
Another owner said the meeting was asked to vote on a concept design that did not include exterior finishes, which the developer could change during the development application approval.
Esber told the meeting that the glass bricks would provide “the highest quality natural light and security for owners”. “We haven’t locked in the design for the brick yet, but it’s the one product that meets the brief for the site. I know that glass bricks can look a bit outdated but, done properly, they won’t ...
“We wanted to work with the natural light that’s available, and this design also provides the security for the residents, and visual and acoustic privacy.”
Esber said Moore was “a good architect and a great designer, but I don’t want to say more”. “This is a concept design, and we’ll be listening to owners for their input into the final design.”
When Esber was asked why Moore had been removed, he said the costs of the project had continued to rise, making it unfeasible.
An owner with extensive experience in planning received a loud round of applause after he spoke of his love for the building, saying he’d never seen a concept design that was better upon completion.
At that point, a member of the strata committee David Saul suggested the motion not proceed. He was supported by the chair Ralf Harding.
With a hotel-style concierge at the front desk, Altair’s 130 units are home to many of Sydney’s wealthy and elite.
Located on the eastern forecourt over the Cross City Tunnel’s traffic, the site for the new apartments has housed a series of businesses, including an MG dealership and a cafe that failed to thrive.
Esber declined to provide any comment to the Herald after the meeting.
Archer Design would not comment on whether it was the new architects, although its name is on the new designs.
Altair was paid an upfront non-refundable fee by the developer of $600,000 to buy the air rights over the new apartment.
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