Inverness councillors have warned against picking a building from the “Lego catalogue” to fill a city centre gap.
Richard Laird and Donnie Kerr both called for a high standard of design for any new-build at the empty eyesore plot in Glebe Street close to the River Ness.
Tulloch Homes hopes to build a 60-house development on the land, which was formerly the home of the city’s swimming baths.
Councillors have been asked to give advice on their expectations for the site, which has lain empty since 1997, before a full planning application is lodged in the new year.
It is visible from the nearby Friars Bridge which carries the busy A82 Inverness-Fort William road over the river.
It is currently in use as a storage yard by contractors working on the flood alleviation scheme on the riverside.
Councillor Kerr, who represents Inverness Central, said: “When it comes to the detail for this, we really don’t want one of the buildings which look like something out of the Lego catalogue.
“This is a very visible site, right next to the A82. They’ve got to bear in mind that Friars Bridge is a very elevated viewpoint as well, it’s at about two storeys in height.
“The building really needs to be set back otherwise we’re going to have to issues with noise and privacy.”
Fellow city centre member Councillor Laird added: “This is going to be a critical area for development of the riverside.
“A standard off-the-shelf design will probably not be suitable for this site.”
The land is jointly owned by the Inverness-based housing company and Edinburgh firm Valad. City leaders have welcomed the idea of the site being redeveloped.
Highland Council previously granted permission for a hotel, but the scheme did not go ahead.
It had been hoped that Aberdeen-based company Carlton Rock’s proposals would bring new life to the riverside area, but the plans were withdrawn in January, just days before councillors were due to discuss them.
It is understood the firm failed to attract an operator for the development.
More recently, Highland Council planning officials suggested the site could become home to a new museum and gallery.