Architectural Approach

Our architectural approach followed an axial design with spaces arranged around central corridors that are met with glazing and views beyond as well as simplifying the internal circulation, making it easier for people to age in place. For a project where we do not personally know the future resident, we instead aim to create spaces that are highly functional but flexible so people can make it their own and call it home. Using natural materials like timber flooring and stone, we bridge traditional charm with contemporary design, ensuring each home offers a sense of familiarity. Large windows and outdoor areas extend living spaces, blurring the line between the built and natural environment, and promoting a lifestyle that is suited to the local context.

Sustainable Approach

In all our design work, sustainability plays such an important part, that was no different for The Ace Residences. From the initial concepts, we looked to work around the significant native trees on the site, including a magnificent gum tree that is celebrated on entry and throughout the site. This together with a detailed landscape plan that adds a variety of green space to support a healthy environment and use predominantly native plants needing less water, preserving the Southern Highlands' beauty for years to come. For the dwellings themselves, we have followed passive design principles to ensure all receive high levels of direct sunlight through winter, well above the requirements, but also with carefully designed overhangs to reduce direct sunlight in summer. This together with opportunities for natural crossflow ventilation through the houses reduces the reliance on technology and provides comfortable spaces all year round.

The sustainable approach goes beyond the design and construction of the dwellings, each house has energy-efficient appliances, water-saving fixtures, and superior insulation to ensure comfort and reduced utility costs, contributing to a greener, more sustainable community. Our goal is always to go beyond the statutory requirements for sustainability, all dwellings are specified with solar systems four times larger than required with electric vehicle charging fitted to all garages to promote a greener lifestyle for future residents.

Community and Accessibility

In the design of The Ace Residences, we carefully considered the needs of those over 60 and how those needs would change in the future, focusing on creating a supportive and accessible community environment. The essence of this lies in its open floor plans and layouts that prioritise ease of movement, ensuring that every resident can navigate their home with comfort and independence to stay in their homes for as long as possible. Thoughtful architectural details, such as wider doorways, flush entries, and easily accessible storage, underscore a commitment to accessibility without compromising on elegance or functionality. Additionally, common areas are designed to foster social interaction, with spaces that encourage residents to gather, share experiences, and build connections. This approach extends beyond physical design to include digital accessibility features, ensuring that technology in the residences enhances liveability and safety. The integration of smart home technologies can offer peace of mind through security features and ease of use for controlling lighting, temperature, video intercoms, and more, even when the residents aren’t home.

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