Montague: Adapting Density

Montague: Adapting Density is a research and design project testing how an industrial precinct can accommodate more housing while retaining existing buildings. It looks at density as a question of reuse, carbon, planning controls and development feasibility. The project works with a catalogue of existing character buildings, height controls, podium conditions, carbon modelling and design scenarios. New housing is tested alongside retained industrial fabric, asking how much of the precinct can stay in use while still allowing significant urban change. The project proposes density exchange as a method. Retention is not treated only as heritage protection. It becomes part of a broader development logic, where existing buildings carry carbon, spatial value and public character. The aim is to produce more housing with less demolition and a more careful account of what the city already has.

Client Research project Project Team Lauren Garner, Samuel Torre, Yash Rangani Consultants Laurence Dragomir, DEWLP Fabian Prideaux, EPIC Database Location Montague, Fishermans Bend, Victoria Country Boon Wurrung Country Year 2024–ongoing Status Complete / ongoing research Type Urban research, adaptive reuse, density exchange, carbon modelling