Knox Council launches $50,000 plan to encourage better design

A COUNCIL will splash $50,000 on updating its guidelines and holding awards to encourage builders to stop coming up with ugly designs for high-rise complexes in Melbourne’s outer east.

The Kubix apartments on the corner of Burwood Highway and Stud Rd in Wantirna South are among the contentious designs in the area. Picture: Lawrence Pinder

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CONCERNS over the look of Knox’s high-rise buildings have prompted a $50,000 initiative to entice developers to come up with better designs.

Knox Council’s Good Urban Design Program was approved at a meeting this week.

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It will include $20,000 for forums and awards events and $30,000 updating the council’s residential design guidelines.

Knox Mayor Darren Pearce said there wouldn’t be cash prizes given, but architects and developers would be given recognition for coming up with attractive designs.

“One of the biggest criticisms we’re getting from some residents is that they don’t like the look of high-rise, high-density apartment buildings,” he said.

“They’re going to continue, particularly in Knox Central, so what we’re trying to say is ‘how do we get better design outcomes that are more aesthetically appealing and provide better overall amenity?’”

Some contentious developments have included the Kubix apartments on the corner of Burwood Highway and Stud Rd and houses likened to Federation Square on Woodvale Rd, Boronia.

According to a council report, the program will develop over time, with input from future investigations, engagement with stakeholders, workshops and forums.