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Comme
Prahran, Victoria | 2022
Type

Mixed-Use

Team

Domenic Cerantonio, Bec DiNapoli, Manuela Millan, Stephen Herbst, Frazer Spence, Sascha Beck-Harris, Darren Parisella, Dookee Chung, Michael Khoo

Sitting directly opposite the iconic Prahran Market, Comme is designed as a conversation between old and new.

At street level, the existing Old-English-style, Edwardian-era building is preserved and celebrated, while a contemporary eight-storey form steps back behind it. The result is a building that respects its past while embracing the rhythm of a vibrant neighbourhood.

The architecture is shaped to give residents the best of both worlds — outlooks across Commercial Road and the Market beyond, balanced with privacy and calm. Deep balconies, greenery and a gentle façade rhythm create a sense of openness while softening the building’s scale.

At ground level, retail, dining and public spaces extend the life of the street, with arched openings and a commissioned mural connecting Comme back to its community. Inside, wellness and liveability take priority, with light, air and simple, tactile materials shaping spaces that feel both grounded and uplifting.

Approved for 32 residences alongside retail, dining and public amenities, the project is also an opportunity to strengthen its connection to the community. “Comme Prahran will create a contemporary place with a timeless character, blending heritage and modern design to foster creativity and inclusivity. With Cera Stribley’s deep understanding of the suburb’s urban fabric, we believe the project will resonate with people who value both Prahran’s cultural richness and the quality of design and amenities on offer,”  — Chek Ming Cheng, Leeka Director.

Design Response

182-194 is situated on a corner site with frontages to Commercial Rd, Izett St, & Laneway to the rear side of the site.

The proposal will maintain the existing heritage frontage and integrate it within the overall design scheme.

Setting back 10m to respect the visual presence of the existing heritage building

Carving out the tower form allows to read the heritage building as the primary visual bulk and the new addition as a secondary “backdrop” that elegantly floats above the existing site.

The carved form allows for a series of stepping volumes that responds to the silhouette of the heritage form and maintains a clear visual reading from street

The stepping form results in a green buffer that softens the proposal into the existing conditions.

The gentle curve is applied to the Façade further reducing the overall visual bulk allowing the form to become a simple yet elegant backdrop of Prahran's urban fabric.

“What makes this brief special is its focus on creating a vibrant, integrated community hub that celebrates Prahran’s past while embracing its future.”

Domenic Cerantonio

Managing Principal

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