Well rounded

Sometimes Environmental constraints on a building project can be turned to an advantage. For example, with the right architectural mindset a restrictive, unusually shaped footprint can give rise to a dynamic, even sculptural, residential complex.

This was the case when Cornerstone Properties, on behalf of owners FA Pidgeon and Son, asked Cottee Parker Architects to design a boutique apartment complex with a difference, on what could have been seen as an awkward piece of land.

Despite a small site, three street frontages and height restrictions, the architects created a sculptural landmark that has a variety of residential options. The Hub's asymmetrical shape offers a different face to passers-by from almost every angle and from within the views are equally diverse.

Designer Sandra Brown of Cottee Parker Architects says the eight-level building, as well as two basement car parking levels, offers 21 individual design styles, catering to several lifestyle options.

"There are 49 one, two, and three bedroom units. We also have three individually designed two-storey, two bedroom terrace houses with private street entrances. There is even a niche option that combines an apartment with a connected but set-apart home office," Brown says. "The apartments range in size from 61m² up to 180m²."

One element that all these units have in common, even the smallest, is a sense of spaciousness and comfort.

Managing director for Cornerstone Properties Andrew Harper says floor-to-ceiling glass in key areas and bifold doors in many apartments enhance the feeling of having room to move.

"Deep-set balconies provide privacy. The largely open-plan designs, with strategic separating zones and nooks and expansive kitchens all add to the feeling of a relaxed lifestyle," says Harper.

As well as the site, Brisbane's tropical climate was another shaping factor in The Hub's design. "The three bedroom apartments, for example, allow cross ventilation from east to west," says Harper. "The deep-set balconies, distinctive sunshades and venting blades add to the comfort as well as the appearance of the complex."

A city lifestyle can be seen as an extension of the complex's advantages, as its name implies. Occupants are only a short 800m walk to Queen Street Mall and an even shorter 500m stroll to the Valley Mall. In addition to the apartment options, the building also has two ground floor retail tenancies

When not actually out and about in the city, owners have a commanding view over it. The three-sided building affords city views to the south, city, Story Bridge views to the east that can't be built out, and aspects of Spring Hill to the west.

The Hub also offers state of the art security to go with its other well-thought out advantages. There is proximity card security to all external points of access and permanent on-site management.

Elements such as ample storage room and additional basement storage, plus the luxury of two lifts servicing The Hub all add to the building's comfortable, hassle-free environment. Another important and highly convenient aspect of this well-thought out apartment complex is that most units have their own basement car park spaces. There is also a disabled car park facility.

"The building is designed to attract buyers with a keen sense of style," says Harper. "Fine aesthetics and fine finishes contribute to this from the stone walls on the Terrace House frontages to the high-end appliances in the spacious kitchens."

For further information on The Hub apartments, contact FA Pidgeon and Son's development manager Cornerstone Properties, phone (07) 3832 0111. Or visit these websites: www.thehubapartments.com, or www.cpltd.com.au.

Story by: Trendsideas