Water's EdgeGenerous Living
Water’s Edge is a mixed-use development situated in the heart of the regional urban centre of Warners Bay in Newcastle. The precinct is in a prime waterfront location connecting to and activating a lively streetscape.
The project was included as a case study in the NSW Government Apartment Design Guide, 2023.
Water’s Edge is a mixed-use development situated in the heart of the regional urban centre of Warners Bay in Newcastle. The precinct is in a prime waterfront location connecting to and activating a lively streetscape.
The project was included as a case study in the NSW Government Apartment Design Guide, 2023.
Location
Warners Bay
State
NSW
Country
Awabakal
Client
Bloc
Expertise
Residential, Commercial
Year
2022
Collaborators
Bloc, Indesco, Terras Landscape Architects, RGH Consulting, ADW Johnson
Photography
Simon Wood
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Brief
A primary objective of the project was to create a dynamic street edge that stimulates the public realm. Located on a notable corner, directly opposite the waterfront reserve and lake edge, the development maximises views. The street is activated with commercial space while providing a peaceful retreat for residents via the generously proportioned private courtyard.
A primary objective of the project was to create a dynamic street edge that stimulates the public realm. Located on a notable corner, directly opposite the waterfront reserve and lake edge, the development maximises views. The street is activated with commercial space while providing a peaceful retreat for residents via the generously proportioned private courtyard.
Design
To achieve a comfortable and well framed public street the project incorporates a succession of masonry portal structures with double-height proportions, running along the Esplanade and Howard Street boundaries. The design incorporates distinct middle and upper levels to assist in the reduction of the building's scale. A spacious garden area, complete with recreational facilities, including a gym and pool space, bring the community of the building together at the centre of the site.
To achieve a comfortable and well framed public street the project incorporates a succession of masonry portal structures with double-height proportions, running along the Esplanade and Howard Street boundaries. The design incorporates distinct middle and upper levels to assist in the reduction of the building's scale. A spacious garden area, complete with recreational facilities, including a gym and pool space, bring the community of the building together at the centre of the site.
Impact
Water’s Edge establishes a new benchmark for the Warners Bay town centre, supporting tourism whilst enhancing vibrancy of the public realm and lake foreshore. The buildings feature numerous residential entries, contributing to a continuous animated street edge. Landscaped planter boxes are incorporated into each entry, provide a clear and inviting marker for residents and enhance the overall street aesthetic.
Water's Edge represents site optimisation as opposed to yield maximisation. Generous apartments appeal to downsizers and set a good benchmark for a regional coastal town in transition. - NSW Government.
Water’s Edge establishes a new benchmark for the Warners Bay town centre, supporting tourism whilst enhancing vibrancy of the public realm and lake foreshore. The buildings feature numerous residential entries, contributing to a continuous animated street edge. Landscaped planter boxes are incorporated into each entry, provide a clear and inviting marker for residents and enhance the overall street aesthetic.
Water's Edge represents site optimisation as opposed to yield maximisation. Generous apartments appeal to downsizers and set a good benchmark for a regional coastal town in transition. - NSW Government.