THE VALLEY APPARTMENTS
Location Springwood, NSW
Project Completed 2016
Builder Glenstone Group Pty. Ltd.
Photos courtesy of Glenstone Group Pty. Ltd.
Jakaan Architects was approached by a local builder and developer, impressed by our track record in the Blue Mountains and our ability to navigate complex design challenges. The project centred on an apartment building situated on a south-facing site, with strict adherence to SEPP 65 apartment design guidelines, which typically favour north-facing sunlight exposure. Adding to the complexity, the site featured split levels, with a three-storey height difference between the lower entry laneway and the street level facing south, resulting in three out of the five storeys being essentially underground and lacking direct sunlight.
Jakaan Architects took on the challenge by preparing the initial design concept, focusing on optimizing light and ventilation despite the southern orientation. Our design solutions carefully integrated natural light sources, strategic window placements, and architectural features that enhanced liveability while meeting SEPP 65 guidelines. The design not only addressed the site’s split-level constraints but also maximized the potential of the remaining above-ground storeys.
To bring the vision to life, Jakaan Architects was responsible for preparing the comprehensive construction documentation, ensuring all design elements were clearly detailed for the builders to execute. This included technical specifications, materials, and construction methodologies tailored to the unique site conditions, making the project feasible from both a construction and aesthetic standpoint.
Given the site’s challenges, the project required extensive negotiation with the local council, where we presented a strong case for approval based on the design’s technical merits and innovative approach. Through careful planning and perseverance, the project received the necessary planning approval. In fact, it has since been cited by the local council as a model example of how to achieve functional and visually appealing apartment designs under difficult conditions in the Blue Mountains region.
Jakaan Architects’ role from concept design through to construction documentation ensured the project was fully prepared for a smooth transition into the construction phase. This development is a testament to our ability to navigate complex regulatory environments, tackle challenging site conditions, and deliver exceptional architectural solutions that meet both client and council expectations.
Project Completed 2016
Builder Glenstone Group Pty. Ltd.
Photos courtesy of Glenstone Group Pty. Ltd.
Jakaan Architects was approached by a local builder and developer, impressed by our track record in the Blue Mountains and our ability to navigate complex design challenges. The project centred on an apartment building situated on a south-facing site, with strict adherence to SEPP 65 apartment design guidelines, which typically favour north-facing sunlight exposure. Adding to the complexity, the site featured split levels, with a three-storey height difference between the lower entry laneway and the street level facing south, resulting in three out of the five storeys being essentially underground and lacking direct sunlight.
Jakaan Architects took on the challenge by preparing the initial design concept, focusing on optimizing light and ventilation despite the southern orientation. Our design solutions carefully integrated natural light sources, strategic window placements, and architectural features that enhanced liveability while meeting SEPP 65 guidelines. The design not only addressed the site’s split-level constraints but also maximized the potential of the remaining above-ground storeys.
To bring the vision to life, Jakaan Architects was responsible for preparing the comprehensive construction documentation, ensuring all design elements were clearly detailed for the builders to execute. This included technical specifications, materials, and construction methodologies tailored to the unique site conditions, making the project feasible from both a construction and aesthetic standpoint.
Given the site’s challenges, the project required extensive negotiation with the local council, where we presented a strong case for approval based on the design’s technical merits and innovative approach. Through careful planning and perseverance, the project received the necessary planning approval. In fact, it has since been cited by the local council as a model example of how to achieve functional and visually appealing apartment designs under difficult conditions in the Blue Mountains region.
Jakaan Architects’ role from concept design through to construction documentation ensured the project was fully prepared for a smooth transition into the construction phase. This development is a testament to our ability to navigate complex regulatory environments, tackle challenging site conditions, and deliver exceptional architectural solutions that meet both client and council expectations.