Luxury Living Finds a Sweet Spot
Sydney Morning Herald, Domain, page 51
Evolve at Jacksons Landing: Winner of the 2009 UDIA High-density Housing award.
Transformed from its industrial beginnings - it was once home to ship and timber yards and the Colonial Sugar Refinery - the site of Vivas Lend Lease's latest redevelopment is now anything but working class.
In contrast to the area's blue collar roots, the new luxury apartments in Evolve, at Jacksons Landing, Pyrmont Point, are targeted at affluent empty-nesters and city-based professionals.
While offering the amenities owners of high-end apartments have come to expect, such as pool, gym and tennis facilities, the development's pet-friendly policy is less conventional. But its progressive approach may have helped the project achieve an almost sold-out status. Just two of the original 47 apartments remain on the market - the more-affordable three-bedroom option will set you back about $2.15 million.
The judges were impressed by the innovative but functional design features throughout the complex - particularly the panelling used on the building's exterior. "The striking purpose-created pre-cast panels... ensure the north facing façade gives uninterrupted views across the north-western end of Sydney Harbour," they said.
The development also scored points for high-quality interior finishings, including under-floor heating in the ensuite bathroom, Miele kitchen and laundry appliances and optional customised inclusions such as a gas fireplace and wine cabinet.
Whereas many high-rise apartment blocks tend not to use common spaces to make a design statement, the judges were impressed by Evolve's ability to do so, saying "the entry foyer and lift lobby create a strong sense of arrival with expansive views to the waterfront."
Another detail the judges noted was the quality of the sound proofing. "Any perceived concern about traffic noise from Anzac Bridge has been more than adequately addressed, as the apartments are surprisingly whisper quiet," they said.
Led by the project's high-profile Sydney based architect, Graham Jahn Associates, the Evolve development offers a choice of 17 floor plans, which the judges described as "ample choice".
The senior development manager for Vivas Lend Lease at Jacksons Landing, Jennifer Cooper, says buyers in today's market demand and expect more choice when it comes to apartments layouts. "Gone are the days when you buy an apartment that has the same floor plan as your neighbours," she says.
Such a high level of individualisation adds weight to the project's luxury credentials, which in turn go some way to justifying its price tag. The early white settlers of the now exclusive Pyrmont Point address would surely be envious.