Vesi were asked to prepare a detailed preliminary feasibility for a proposed multiresidential development at Lutwyche. The compact corner site was tapering in plan and contained an existing (unprotected) character dwelling in relatively good condition. A concept design for apartments over the whole of the site had already been prepared and was to be the basis of the study.

Vesi reviewed the feasibility of the existing design concept, and variations of it, and the proposed development was found to be unfeasible in its current form.   This was due to a number of factors including circulation inefficiencies due to the irregular shape of the site, and the relatively low site yield due to the small size and irregular shape of the site.

Vesi subsequently broadened the scope of investigation to include a number of alternative scenarios.   Vesi prepared a preliminary concept design for feasibility purposes, and obtained preliminary construction cost and projected sales return advice, in preparing the preliminary feasibility for alternative options for the site. One option included the retention and refurbishment of the existing house, and the addition of townhouses to the reminder of the site.   Benefitting from the value embedded in the existing dwelling, for this particular site this option proved to be the most feasible development proposal.   Without knowing the potential of this development option, it had been previously discounted by the client due to Council’s desire for greater density, and on the assumption that demolishing the existing dwelling and developing apartments would be the most feasible option for this site.

The client is progressing the project on the basis of the findings of the detailed preliminary feasibility report.   The client has saved considerable design fees by determining the most feasible option for the site early in the development process.   Savings to the client in avoiding the cost of redundant design work would be significantly higher than the investment in Vesi’s fees.

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Lutwyche aerial view courtesy of Google Earth.