Setting a new benchmark for community-centred urban design in Newcastle, the West Village development at 711 Hunter Street has received approval from the Hunter Central Coast Regional Planning Panel, to deliver its transformative $100 million precinct in the Western corner of the city’s CBD.
Designed by Plus Architecture for developers Spotlight Property Group and St Hilliers, the West Village development will reshape the area into a thriving mecca of culture, creativity and entertainment. A mixed-use precinct, West Village will have 1400 SQM of curated ground plane experience, featuring podium levels of 16 retail and commercial tenancies, and multi-storey food and beverage opportunities. Above will sit two towers, home to 257 1-4 bedroom apartments and penthouses.
Situated in the heart of one of Australia’s fastest growing cities, West Village’s iconic sculpturally curved architectural design will create a landmark destination for Newcastle locals and visitors alike. Having been awarded the design of the development following the Government Architects Design process — the first of its kind for a private development in Newcastle, Plus Architecture have crafted not just a residential development, but a destination that will connect and inspire.
Through the large public plaza fronting National Park Street and through the direct connections it will create to both the Drill Hall Gallery and Birdwood Park, the design has community at its heart. Plus Architecture Director Rido Pin, cites that placemaking and longevity have been key focusses in this project. “Whilst our bespoke two-tower design seeks to break the mold, creating a landmark building that will transform the city’s skyline, much more than this, the broader development seeks to transform the lives of local people.”
Pin continues, “Throughout the process, we have worked collaboratively with our clients, consultants and the community to design a rich and dynamic ground plane, which will be accompanied by a carefully sculpted building form – serving both the residents and the wider community. Designing with Country principles, landscaping, public art and retail strategies have all informed our design.”
Applying its award-winning design expertise to this project, Plus Architecture have also sought to ensure that sustainability is embedded across the development. From the inclusion of 90MW of rooftop solar panels to a 300 electric-vehicle-ready car park and 300 bicycle parking spaces in both secure and public areas, alongside end-of-trip facilities, the development has been designed with the future in mind.
Designing for Country principles have been adopted in the project’s architectural, urban and landscape design through engaging with local Elders from the Awabakal people, facilitated by COLA Studio. St Hilliers Development Manager, Luke McNamara said West Village will be a unique offering for the whole community to visit and enjoy.
“Through our work with Plus Architecture, our development seeks to deliver a space that sparks awe and inspiration for all who visit and use the space. By committing $1 million of public art we want to celebrate Newcastle’s thriving arts scene, as well create spaces that will serve and connect locals. This pre-approval will go a long way to streamlining the process for future businesses seeking to be part of the precinct.” Source and images Courtesy of Plus Architecture.
