It's not often that a company gets the chance to shape a city, but an integrated development on the edge of Perth is set to create a new gateway landmark.
The Edge Apartments featured on these pages form part of a large new commercial and residential development on a 1.25ha site at the entrance to Victoria Park. Developed by Finbar Group Ltd and designed by SS Chang Architects, the project provides 64 high-end apartments in a seven-storey tower, and 11 two-storey, townhouse-style apartments.
Architect Sin Chang says the site's prominent location, at the junction of Albany and Canning Highways, provided an opportunity to create a landmark building that would also be a gateway to the town of Victoria Park.
"Extensive efforts were made to develop an appropriate design language across the site, taking into account the variety of adjacent architectural influences," says Chang. "It was essential to retain a cohesive, unified design, from the massing and proportions of the buildings, to the roof forms and pitch, and window and door proportions. And with four street frontages, the importance of the streetscape was crucial."
The residential tower has an arcing design that addresses the picturesque view across parkland to the Swan River. The design also maximises the unit frontages while minimising the potential for apartments to be overlooked.
Senior architect Michael Meehan says it's a simple and pleasing aesthetic that responds to the building's context. The lowrise building has a reverse arc, which is a visual counter to the tower. The curve of this building ensures the townhouse apartments will gain maximum privacy and outlook. It also provides enough room for a community green space.
The architects say the soft, flowing curves of both buildings will distinguish the development from its neighbours, helping to cement its landmark status.
The design team has also addressed environmental factors. The apartments are designed to maximise natural light, while minimising unwanted solar gain. Covered walkways and sheltering spaces will provide protection from prevailing winds.
All units will have large, private outdoor spaces. Residents will also enjoy an attractively landscaped pool deck, which will feature a 16.5m heated lap pool and outdoor spa. Other amenities include a pool lounge, barbecue, games and bar area, fully equipped gymnasium and sauna.
The spacious apartment interiors will feature high-quality materials and finishes that reinforce the sense of luxury. The architects say the apartments have been designed to provide layout flexibility. In addition, the open-plan design ensures the views and light will be maximised.
The design provides both natural ventilation and a ducted air conditioning system. Apartments will also have acoustic and visual privacy.
Darren Pateman, Finbar Group CEO, says the development's close proximity to the river, parks, city and public transport are major drawcards. The development was designed to be a transport node a principal hub on the bike/bus/car transport network.
"The development will provide a real sense of community," Pateman says. "In addition to the apartment amenities, residents will be able to enjoy a variety of retail facilities, cafes and restaurants."
For more details, contact Neil Kay, Knight Frank, phone 0439 687 688. Email: neil.kay@au.knightfrank.com . Or contact Ian Tan-Kang, Burgess Rawson, phone 0422 398 888. Email: itan-kang@brwa.com.au . Website: www.finbar.com.au .
25 Nov, 2008
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