A village-like residential development, this project successfully combines a mix of dwelling types, including detached houses, attached townhouses, and low to medium-rise apartments. A materials palette of natural block, rendered concrete and metal cladding features strongly and helps it achieve the desired effect.

IN BRIEF

Plan, engineer and construct a new residential development of over 500 residences on a large site in central Southport. Also include sports and recreation areas.

ARCHITECT’S WORDS

Sphere is a medium density residential development on the edge of a rapidly growing education and medical precinct. The project promotes a lively mix of residential dwelling types including detached dwellings, attached townhouses, and low to medium rise apartments.

This was to ‘provide affordable housing for the mixed demographic from families, couples, students and seniors’.

A total of 320 dwellings has been constructed in Stages 1-4. The masterplan demonstrates how the neighbourhood approach to the design enables a predominantly open character to be maintained in a relatively dense urban environment.

A simple hierarchy of streets, lanes, pocket parks and open space provides legible circulation and recreational opportunity.

We are trying to ‘promote the importance of providing amenity with density’. A central recreation facility including pools and recreation facilities allows for social interaction, reinforcing the quality of life afforded by urban living.

A green roof terrace is provided to the highest building, which provides communal open space above the ground, with views overlooking the central amenities area.

The architectural language is simple and bold using a limited range of materials in a layered format. The language of natural block, painted concrete forms, aluminium screens and metal cladding is contemporary and minimal.

ACCOLADES

• 2011 AIA Gold Coast/ Northern Rivers \\'Building of the Year\\'
• 2011 AIA Gold Coast/ Northern Rivers \\'Regional Commendation\\'

PRODUCTS

BLOCKWORKS
BORAL BRICKS

METAL CLADDING
BLUESCOPE STEEL 
DULUX POWDER COATINGS 

WINDOWS & DOORS
PILKINGTON, AUSTINT GREEN GLASS

SOFFITS
TIMBER SOLUTIONS, PLYWOOD
DULUX ACRATEX

DOWNPIPES
DULUX, DULUX WEATHERSHIELD 
TIMBER SOLUTIONS 

PAINT
DULUX, MUSGRAVE CREAM
DULUX, MUSGRAVE WHITE
DULUX, KLUTE