That is a neat project. One of the things I like about Halifax is that there's a good mix of developments at different scales, particularly in the North End. It's not just large condos, although there are some of those going in too. There's also a diverse mix of uses packed into a small area. If it can manage to retain this character while densities increase then it will be a great neighbourhood.
Not sure if they pointed it out, but the enclosed "breezeway" connecting the two parts was created partly because of zoning requirements in the area. Unless you get a variance, you're only allowed to build one building per lot. There have been laneway houses as well but they probably required special approval. The city really needs to get rid of some of these inflexible rules.
Here's another project not far away:
http://densecity.ca/