JadeApartments

The $98M Jade Apartments is a master planned multi residential development located in the developing inner city suburb of Albion, which continues its transformation from tired industrial to sophisticated residential metropolis. 

The development comprises four six storey building envelopes, with a total of 369 one, two and three bedroom apartments. All are finished to a high standard in line with architect Arqus Design’s vision of relaxed and sophisticated living, with well-appointed kitchens and bathrooms, and flexibility of entertaining spaces both internally and on balconies and private courtyards.

A sense of community is fostered, with buildings oriented to engage with the central residents’ recreation area, which features lush subtropical garden beds, a 20-metre swimming pool, spa and bbq facilities, as well as a council maintained park on the Burdett Street frontage. Making the most of the topography of the site and bank rehabilitation works undertaken by Hutchinson Builders, a tranquil and private communal “Zen” garden has been incorporated into the rear of the site for residents to cultivate, or simply relax.

Architecturally, the buildings are contemporary and fresh in style. Hutchinson Builders incorporated many design elements to enhance liveability, functionality and overall aesthetic appeal. Features include the use of banks of louvred windows to catch cross breezes, bathe hallways in natural light, and eliminate the need for mechanical services to these areas. The use of innovative sliding screens installed to balconies allows residents to customise their connection with the surrounds. Overall visual articulation is achieved with the use of juxtaposed lightweight materials and shapes, variations in colour palette and texture, deep recesses and unexpected projections. All of which serve in conjunction with the extensive landscaping and generosity of proportion, to invite the outside in and set new benchmarks for a relaxed and sophisticated Brisbane lifestyle.

Hutchinson Builders was engaged on a Design and Construct basis, and the project was split into four stages, with eight contractual separable portions. Therefore, co-ordination of scheduling and sequencing of key construction activities was a crucial aspect of the project as completed towers were occupied during construction of subsequent stages.

Stage one dealt with the inherent challenges of the site, demolition of contaminated industrial structures, and the clearing, stabilisation, and rehabilitation of the 2400m² eastern embankment. Stage two saw the completion of demolition works, and bulk and detailed excavation for the two level 14,902m² basement car park. Stage three encompassed the completion of the basement area, podium, pool, gymnasium and common landscaped areas, as well as the first three residential towers. Finally, stage four comprised the construction of the last residential tower.

Thanks to diligent cost and design management by the Hutchinson Builders team, and their close working relationship with the Client and subcontractor teams, the project was delivered six weeks ahead of schedule and within budget.