Seasons in the sun

Empty nesters often consider downsizing to an apartment to be the next logical step in their lives, but are reluctant to give up the individual character of their stand-alone house. However, some high-end developments provide potential owners with opportunities for personalisation.

Owners at Lindfield Apartments a modern residential complex by developer Arkibuilt can adapt the floor plans and finishes to meet their personal needs, says Wally Zagoridis, principal, architect and co-partner of Arkibuilt together with fellow owner Robert Moss.

"Lindfield Apartments demolishes the myth that every unit is the same. We have ensured each owner has unprecedented choice in layout, design and finishes for their apartment," Zagoridis says. "Within each footprint, there is broad flexibility owners can move walls and specify features that appeal to them, such as a fireplace. Equally, they are not compelled to retain elements they don't require."

Once owners start planning their interiors, they have a deeper attachment than they otherwise would, because they've put so much of themselves into the designs, Zagoridis says.

Lindfield Apartments is being built in stages. The 41 units of stage one sold out through good word-of-mouth about the high quality of the project. Even prior to the commencement of construction of the second stage, all 19 of these units also sold out.

With this level of interest, it is perhaps not surprising that Lindfield Apartments was a finalist in the HIA awards 2009 for NSW Apartment of the Year. The development attracted Highly Commended for the standard of finishes throughout and Highly Commended for its use of natural materials and communal spaces.

"The three-building complex aims to appeal to people wanting to downsize from a large, high-maintenance home into a smaller, easy-care dwelling," says Zagoridis.

To provide a comfortable transition for those who miss their gardens, the complex is built around a courtyard with lawns and water features. Scattered seating offers places to relax and encourages a sense of community.

"The central courtyard has a village green feel, meaning neighbours have the opportunity to meet each other while enjoying the grounds," Zagoridis says. "This is more than an apartment development it's an environment."

Zagoridis and Moss chose natural materials to enhance the exterior of the complex and to fit with the context of its heritage surroundings. Brickwork and Sydney sandstone decorate the facade, along with zinc and copper cladding. The metals will mellow and change colour as they age, adding visual interest to the building.

Entry to the complex will be secure and the buildings incorporate a C-Bus system to control the lighting in every apartment.

"A sense of spaciousness and comfort prevails throughout the development," says Zagoridis. "Internal doors in all the apartments are a generous 2.3m high, with the penthouse ceilings soaring to 3.6m.

"In addition, upmarket Miele appliances feature in the kitchens, and each apartment has a balcony for alfresco dining, shaded by motorised retractable awnings."

For further details, contact Arkibuilt, 50 Wayne Avenue, Lugarno, NSW 2210, phone (02) 9584 3771, fax (02) 9596 2534. Alternatively, visit the website: www.lindfieldapartments.com.au.

Story by: Trendsideas