Words: Paul McGillick – Habitus magazine Editor

Settled in the same year as the colony was founded in 1788 – because it offered quality farm land which Sydney lacked – Parramatta has long been officially a city. But it has always lacked the urbanity of a true city – until now, because the demographics are rapidly changing. Government departments are moving their headquarters there along with a range of commercial companies, including lawyers and accountants.

The new Gallery development – 246 apartments with eight commercial units on the ground floor – close to the heart of the CBD is a response to these changes, offering quality residential space and amenity comparable to inner-suburban Sydney.

No doubt the strong hint of ‘Bali-style’ owes something to the Crown Group’s CEO, Iwan Sunito, who is an Indonesian-Australian. The building was designed by Joshua International Architects, Watermark Interior Designers and Taylor Brammer Landscape Architects and stands almost as a gateway building to Parramatta with its lively façade the first thing one sees driving off the freeway towards the city.

The two towers are linked by a screened spine and ceremonial entry with a decorative gate. Inside, water features and lush topical plantings connect the lobby with the gardens. A library and functions room form the two arms of a U-shaped garden leading to the 25 metre-swimming pool with its timber decks and Balinese-style gazebo. The complex also includes a Scandinavian-inspired sauna and fully-equipped gymnasium.

Surrounded by low-rise buildings, the apartments enjoy spectacular views, especially from the penthouses on the 16^th and 17^th floors.

With more such developments in the pipeline, Parramatta is starting to offer the kind of amenity appropriate for its size and importance, but so far noticeable for its absence. The planning mistakes of the past are now being addressed and the city is changing rapidly and, with any luck, its rich historical heritage will soon be matched by more quality contemporary buildings such as the Justice Precinct, NSW Police Headquarters and Sydney Water.


Crown Gallery
crowngallery.com.au

Crown CEO, Iwan Sunito, Minister for Housing The Hon David Bodger, and Crown’s Paul Sathio