Carr x Grandview

How have you incorporated Carr’s philosophy of calm, clear, and honest architecture into Grandview?

Grandview presents a striking architectural duality, always anchored by its context. A calm and honest architectural presence, synonymous with Carr's philosophy, is established through the podium facing High Street and Airlie Avenue. The robust, heavily gridded form on the street frontage presents a simple design, referencing a grid framework with strong horizontal and vertical lines. The deep façade creates a sense of longevity and quality, reinforcing Grandview’s enduring architectural nature.

As you move toward the courtyard, the architectural form curves into a more dramatic and playful disposition, celebrating the heritage tree and our thoughtful response to its presence.

What inspired the overall design concept for this project?

The site’s distinctive characteristics – particularly the large, nationally heritage-listed tree and the sloping topography – were the initial drivers behind the overall concept.

The architecture engages with the bustling streetscape of High Street in Prahran while providing relief through the expansive tree canopy and thoughtfully designed built form. The sloping topography, falling approximately four meters from northeast to southwest, allows for a split in the building. This maximizes the penthouse area and establishes views from the upper levels.

Could you highlight any unique architectural elements or materials that distinguish Grandview from other developments?

The architectural material palette is intentionally simple, using only two materials. A refined selection of richly textured, layered rendered brick in a neutral shade is complemented by dark metalwork, which evokes the appearance of traditional zinc and lead cladding. This combination enhances the solidity of the podium and creates a timeless, harmonious aesthetic that dialogues with the interiors.

From a sustainability standpoint, Grandview’s silhouette and thick, heavy brick façade promote extensive thermal mass, reducing heat loss while ensuring durability. To the east, deep eaves protect residents from direct sunlight while allowing ample natural light to penetrate year-round.

The large heritage tree also contributes significantly to shading, improving the building’s environmental performance. In collaboration with an ESD consultant, the design has achieved a seven-star NatHERS energy rating. Sustainable initiatives include rainwater retention and reuse, bicycle parking, and sun-shading awnings on all north- and west-facing windows.

What can residents expect in terms of design, atmosphere, and lifestyle when they experience life at Grandview?

Located in one of Melbourne’s most sought-after suburbs, Prahran, Grandview offers residents a design experience that connects with the landscape through carefully crafted transitional moments between form and materiality.

The development comprises 26 residences spread across four levels, with a mix of two- and three-bedroom floorplans. Each apartment features high ceilings, generously proportioned interior spaces, large kitchens, thoughtfully designed master suites, and spacious ensuites.

Private rooftop terraces with city views and a communal courtyard beneath the substantial heritage-listed tree canopy further enhance the living experience.

What is your vision for Carr’s future and its impact on Australian architecture?

As with all our projects, Grandview exemplifies Carr’s commitment to responding thoughtfully to a project’s context, resulting in a design that is both considered and enduring. We look forward to continuing to shape the built environment with this rigorous approach to design excellence, while always staying mindful of the natural landscape and market influences.

LEARN MORE https://www.carr.net.au/project/grandview/