24 | Ockham Residential: Greenhouse Development T T Karen Phelps ‘A new standard in urban living’ The building’s most striking feature is the 150,000 iridescent, green-glazed handmade bricks. from Italy’. DEVELOPMENT As residents of The Greenhouse approach their first anniversary in one of Auckland’s most distinctive developments, the building’s unique character continues to draw attention. “It’s the tallest building on the Ponsonby skyline, and the locale is exceptional with the connection with motorways to come and go from such a unique spot. Everyone seems to love the building,” says William Deihl, Ockham Residential chief executive. William says the development, comprising 92 apartments, embodies Ockham’s philosophy of creating buildings that contribute meaningfully to Auckland’s urban landscape, while fostering community living. The company has maintained its commitment to this vision since its establishment in 2009 by Mark Todd and Benjamin Preston. Situated in the heart of Ponsonby at 20 Williamson Avenue, the building’s most striking feature is the 150,000 iridescent, green-glazed handmade bricks from Italy’s Sant’Anselmo. William says the journey to source the distinctive bricks took nearly four years, with Ockham searching across New Zealand, Australia and Europe before finding the perfect match. Each brick, costing more than $10, changes colour throughout the day, shifting from emerald green in the morning sun to forest green, then dark olive and almost black as the light changes. Lead architect Tania Wong has ensured the building’s interior matches its striking exterior. The material palette draws inspiration from what the team calls the ‘Aotearoa aesthetic’’, incorporating elements that reflect Auckland’s natural environment. “All the materials we’ve chosen are deeply inspired by nature – the birds, the bush and the ocean,” she says. “We wanted to bring that feeling inside the building too.” Dark slate floors echo the black sand of West Coast beaches, while the colour scheme throughout mirrors the deep greens of the Waitakere ranges. “As soon as you step into the lobby, your feet land on dark slate floor tiles cut and laid in a chevron pattern,” says Tania. “We’ve tied in the brass and slate from the lobby into the kitchens and bathrooms of the apartments. The kitchen benches are all a gleaming dark slate, then there’s the walnut veneer cabinetry, which adds a real richness, and beautiful engineered European oak for the floors; also cut and laid in a chevron pattern. “The colours work wonderfully together, but it’s a very simple palette. It’s not overwhelming, so people can still personalise their apartments with their own finishing touches.” In the bustling environment of Ponsonby, The Greenhouse has been designed as a space for people to reflect, rest and revive. William describes The Greenhouse apartments as specifically designed for natural light, privacy and effortless urban living. “They blend contemporary tranquillity with the expansive windows and lofty ceilings reminiscent of classic architecture. Special care has been given to the lobby, hallways, and residents’ lounge, ensuring that shared spaces are as inviting and enjoyable as the private residences.” William says the development reflects the company’s three core design principles: inclusive architecture that appeals to the general public, distinctly residential character and the ability to age gracefully with minimal maintenance costs. The use of brick and concrete aligns with these principles, particularly in reducing ongoing maintenance requirements for body corporates. “Buildings like this are important for the city’’s identity,” explains William. “People are proud of landmark buildings in their cities. The Greenhouse conveys identity to its neighbourhood and city; inside it will become known as an excellent place to live, covetable for its amenity, location and character. It’s a building that will age gracefully.” William says the location has proved particularly attractive to residents, sitting in what many consider Auckland’s premier dining and retail strip. Within walking distance are some of New Zealand’s most celebrated restaurants, including Azabu, Prego and Ada. 35F Constellation Drive, Rosedale, Auckland PHONE: +64 09 476 9474 admin@airmark.co.nz www.airmarkgroup.co.nz Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Installation and Maintenance Proudly supporting Ockham Construction FLOORCOVERING P R O U D LY S U P P O R T I N G O C K H A M R E S I D E N T I A L 09 638 4949 sales@lovichfloors.co.nz 19C Edwin Street, Mt Eden PO Box 56-106, Dominion Rd, Auckland 1446 Showroom by appointment Flooring can completely change the feel of a commerical or residential space. That’s why getting it right is so important. We have nearly 40 years’ experience in doing just that; delivering a quality product to our clients. For all your carpet, timber or vinyl needs contact us.
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