At the water's edge

T here are many things a contemporary development on the edge of the harbour can offer potential homeowners. Among them, panoramic views that can be enjoyed from every residence and crafted interiors from a material palette that reflects its location. But what it cannot provide, if it doesn't exist, is a sense of history the notion that what is being built today will quickly form part of a long and illustrious heritage.

The changing fortunes of Glebe Harbour in many ways embodies the history of Sydney itself. So when Australand obtained the area that had previously been a container wharf, the land was less a blank canvas, than a rich historical tapestry upon which to build.

First surveyed in 1790, the area was gifted to the Church of England, earning its name Glebe, from the Latin word meaning clod of earth.

Settlement of Glebe dates from the 1820s, with the most significant architectural homes consisting of Victorian terrace houses and grand Edwardian estates. In the first half of the 20th century the area fell into decline, becoming one of the poorest parts of the city during the Depression. This began to change in the 1970s, when private and public initiatives saw the area's fortunes improve.

Alongside its tumultuous residential history, Glebe Harbour was also, until as late as 2000, the site of an industrial port.

Australand's residential sales and marketing manager Anthony Trueman-Farrell says Glebe Harbour's maritime heritage was a major influence on the design by SJB Architects.

"The low-rise residences that line the shore represent the local architecture and are inspired by the heritage of the site," he says.

"Residential buildings are designed to blend harmoniously with the Glebe Peninsula and village-style character of the area."

Consisting of five separate buildings situated on 23,000m², Glebe Harbour comprises 135 residences. These include the Shore Terraces and Boathouse Terraces by the waterfront, the Garran Townhouses, the Ferry Apartments and the Griffin Apartments.

Each complex offers different living options and features. Most buildings are orientated to the north-east to take advantage of sea and city views, in addition to creating sunny, light-filled interiors.

There are significant open spaces with more than 8,000m² of landscaped area, as well as a 190m harbour foreshore promenade.

Trueman-Farrell says in addition to the creation of new buildings, SJB Architects restored historical structures that had fallen into disrepair.

"The original seawall has been strengthened and rebuilt in sandstone, with a pedestrian promenade alongside," he says.

"SJB also focused on repairing existing structures on the site such as sheds and an incinerator that has lain dormant since the 1940s."

For further information, contact Australand Holdings, Level 3, 1C Homebush Bay Drive, Rhodes, NSW 2138, phone (02) 9767 2053, fax (02) 9767 2906. Website: www.australand.com.au.

Story by: Trendsideas