Inner-city refuge

Combining central city convenience with resortstyle comfort is the objective of an increasingly cosmopolitan society. But architect Ralph Roberts of Architecture Warren and Mahoney says that although the demand for inner-city accommodation ishigh, a lack of quality sites in Wellington has resulted in buildings that lack lifestyle amenities.

The recently completed Sanctum apartment complex has overcome this challenge and successfully delivers space, sun, outdoor living, views, gardens and privacy.

"Sanctum offers a level of services previously unseen in the city," says Roberts. Amenities including a tennis court, golf driving range, 25m lap pool, sauna, spa, gymnasium and barbecue area.

Multiplex Constructions built two eight-storey structures containing 96 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, yet occupy less than 50% of the 6500m² site. This allows for extensive recreational facilities including a 2500m² Renaissance garden with water feature.

Contracts manager Arthur Williams says a critical factor in a central city housing complex is the reduction of external plant, equipment, traffic and adjacent apartment noise.

"Substantial use of concrete at Sanctum has helped reduce noise levels as well as creating an energy efficient building of significant durability," says Williams.

Concrete floors and walls, plus high performance glass, insulated pipe and duct work, provide high levels of insulation.

"The benefits of concrete were a fundamental design consideration," says Williams.

The prevalence of concrete also ensures all apartments benefit from passive solar gains, requiring less heating over winter and less cooling during summer.

Floor-to-ceiling sliding doors open onto large balconies overlooking a northern garden, ensuring maximum sunlight.

Eight floor plans offer a choice of features such as re-locatable kitchen islands in all one-bedroom apartments and selected two-bedroom units. In the split-level three-bedroom penthouse suites, skylights above glazed stairwells, flood living spaces with light.

The kitchens feature timber floors and Fisher and Paykel appliances. The living room and bedrooms are carpeted, while the bathrooms feature ceramic tiled floors, as well as vitreous china and European shower mixers.

For further information contact Multiplex Constructions (NZ) Limited Level 4, 48 Courthouse Ln, Auckland, PO Box 3100. Phone (09) 377 9483, fax (09) 377 9471. Website: www.multiplex.biz.

Story by: Trendsideas