Harbour living

Only a few years ago, some of the bestviews of a city were from the windows of an office block. But the shift towards new CBDs has allowed developers to convert these buildings into residential apartments and make the most of their central location and often panoramic views.

That was the case with this Sydney apartment block, North, developed jointly by Rebel Property Group, Australand Holdings and Capitallandaustralia, and designed by local architectural firm PTW.

One of project's biggest assets is its location in historic Milsons Point, with views of Sydney's harbour to the east, Sydney Harbour Bridge to the southeast, Lavender Bay to the southwest and the Sydney skyline to the north, says Justin Brown of CB Richard Ellis.

"In the 1930s, Milsons Point was a popular destination for day trips, so the architects turned to that decade for inspiration and used the curved glass structures and balconies associated with Art Deco. The large floor-to-ceiling glass windows that surround the living areas also allow for 180 degree views of the harbour, Sydney Harbour Bridge and city skyline," he says.

North comprises 76 apartments over 15 residential stories, with a mix of studio and one-bed apartments, two- and three-bedroom residences and half-floor penthouses, a ground-floor retail and commercial space and basement car park.

Interior design team Richard Archer and Lindy Wright of Archer and Wright specified natural tones and textures throughout, so that the views would take centre stage. The understated colour palette also allows owners to introduce their own choice of colour with furniture and fabrics.

Facilities include secure underground car parking, electronic audio and video security, free-to-air and pay TV using cable technology and category six telecommunications cabling. Apartments and residences are fitted with Smeg appliances, with Miele appliances for the penthouses. Calacutta marble features in all the bathrooms and the penthouse kitchens.

The building has an 80% four star environmental rating. Paints and carpets have low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and each floor has its own energy-efficient air conditioning unit. The architects specified glazing that would improve acoustics, and reduce levels of glare and solar heat.

However, the biggest benefit to the environment is that this large building was refurbished for a new market, rather than being demolished.

"Interest among homeowners has been high, with more than two-thirds of the apartments in the initial phase sold off the plans. We knew that North would attract young professionals and empty nesters, but we've had interest from other people attracted by the location, ease of maintenance and level of finishes," says Brown.

For details, contact CB Richard Ellis (RP) Pty Ltd, Residential Projects, Suite 1403, Level 14, 100 Pacific Hwy, North Sydney NSW 2060, phone (02) 8969 8510, mobile 0432 390 078, fax (02) 8969 8599. Email: tim.rees@cbre.com.au.

Story by: Trendsideas