From the ground up

Many of New Zealand's contemporary residential developments are characterised by large, sprawling suburbs that seem to appear out of nowhere, with little thought given to a master plan, or residents' lifestyles. Today, a new form of residential development is emerging one that seeks to establish distinctive, vibrant village communities.

Designers are frequently taking their cue from traditional villages that have evolved over centuries. These comprehensively planned communities require a seamless integration of uniform design, architecture and landscape. This is, in effect, the application of a Total Design Philosophy, which is at the core of the work undertaken by Chow:Hill Architects.

The new St Andrews Hill Retirement Village in Glendowie was designed with such an aspiration in mind. Chow:Hill Architects' project leader Stuart Mackie says right from the start the development was planned as a hillside village that would cascade down the hill much like a Mediterranean hilltop town.

"Rather than creating one big development, we wanted to provide separate pockets of housing small neighbourhoods that would enhance a community feel," he says. "Crucial to this idea was the notion of landscaped public spaces. Each neighbourhood would be defined by a different outdoor space, be it a village green, a water garden or rose garden. These areas would be key identifying elements that would encourage a sense of stewardship and social interaction."

Mackie says creating a variety of architectural styles was also essential.

"We wanted to avoid an institutional look. But there is an integrated plan an underlying structure that provides visual continuity. The traditional Mediterranean character has been translated into a consistent palette of long-lasting, robust materials. The roofs, for example, are all pitched, but feature different clay tiles. And the silhouetted skyline has plenty of visual interest."

In keeping with the notion of a village that has evolved over time, the development provides larger, landmark dwellings in key positions, such as on a street corner or at the top of a hill. These gateway buildings create a sense of arrival, and help establish a transition between neighbourhoods. In addition, the complex is layered with a variety of public, semi-public and private spaces, which include garden courtyards.

For more details, contact Chow:Hill Architects, phone (09) 522 6460. Website: www.chowhill.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas