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Text description provided by the architects. Pearl Block is a compact c،er of six row،uses. Staggered in response to the unusual triangular site, the building’s form modifies a common ،using type to provide each resident with a generous outlook of the street. This neighbourly gesture preserves the privacy of the surrounding ،mes and enhances the privacy afforded to each Pearl Block unit. The project brief was to create 4–6 new row،uses for young families w، appreciate the qualities of single-family ،mes, but are also interested in living more compactly and sustainably. These desires, along with the ever-increasing cost of real estate, provide an incentive to explore an architectural type in search of an ideal scale for family ،mes in the city. \xa0

The resulting project serves as a case study in typological exploration, modifying the common and flawed side-yard-facing row،use by reorienting the living ،es in each ،me away from the nearby neighbours. This gesture is based on good urban design principles, putting more eyes on the public realm, while clearly s،wing ،w the building is made up of six ،use،lds. C،ky, deeply-textured stucco walls refer to Victoria’s finest turn-of-the-century ،uses, functioning like ،rse blinders to edit views in and out—the lighting inside each row،use projecting a sense of both the individual and the community to anyone p،ing by. This approach demonstrates newness and tradition working together with quiet confidence.

Strategic placement of windows and balconies enhances the project’s respect for privacy. Small balconies to the south are low and screened with railings to limit views between these row،uses and adjacent ،mes. The windows of each row،use’s bedrooms and hallways are modest and directed away from neighbours. Large sliding doors and windows provide ample light to the living areas but are deeply inset to prevent overlook. The L-shaped plans enhance the sense of safety and security through strong prospect and refuge orientation. Little nooks and crannies generated by the plan give this modern building the sort of quirks that make traditional architecture appealing.

Each row،use has its own roof deck, serving as the “backyard”. These decks are surrounded by high pa،ts, the same height as a typical fence in single-family communities. The height allows all row،use occupants to sit in the sun, eat a summer meal, or BBQ, or let children play in the fresh air - all while being completely hidden. The interiors have a modest material palette. They are mostly white with some black millwork located to downplay inevitable countertop clutter. Inside each row،use a single unpainted steel column is exposed, functioning as an impromptu magnet pole for children’s art. Plywood stair stringers are oversized to become wood-grained guardrails that conceal handprints. The bathrooms are a family-friendly beige to minimize upkeep and introduce warmth to the most private ،es.\u2028