The new development company of Iwan Sunito, One Global Capital, has commissioned collaborating architects, Kengo Kuma and Crone Architects to design its first residential and five-star hotel development. World-renowned Japanese architect, Kengu Kuma, in collaboration with local Sydney architects, Crone, will design the residential, retail and resort – including an affordable housing component. It’s part of a wider bid to bring world-class design to one of the city’s most sought-after and much-needed accommodation types.
The One Global Capital Macquarie Park project initially received development approval in November 2023. With the new design team now on board, the developer will submit changes to the design under a Section 4.55 with several elements of the project to be redesigned.
The 7000-square-metre site is boarded by three streets and is notable for its direct connectivity Macquarie Park Metro Station, Macquarie University and Macquarie Shopping Centre.
The project is envisaged to include three towers, the first two containing 304 apartments and a 175-room premium boutique hotel complemented by ground floor specialist high-end retail, while the third tower will be an affordable housing building.
The apartments are set to be larger in size and the hotel will offer 5-star resort-style amenities. The design is envisaged to incorporate an integrated ground floor concierge reception for both the residences and the hotel along with shared gym, pool and premium communal facilities as well as allowing residents access to hotel services.
“The uniqueness of this site presented a remarkable opportunity which called for and warranted the design expertise of an extraordinary architect,” says One Global Capital Chairman and Group CEO, Iwan Sunito. “For this reason, I have appointed the globally acclaimed Kengo Kuma, who brings a shared vision to deliver exceptional, distinctive affordable housing combined with luxury apartments and a five-star, resort-style hotel. We are aiming to deliver a truly extraordinary residential and hotel offering which aims to set a new benchmark in luxurious larger-sized residences, boutique hotels, retail and facilities in Macquarie Park.”
Sunito, however, adds that “affordable does not have to mean cheap and ugly,” raising the question of who exactly is supposed to afford it.
Kengo Kuma says that the project “allows us to blur the lines between residential, resort, retail and nature, creating a tranquil sanctuary that harmonises the built environment with the natural world. Our design emphasises natural materials, transparency and sustainability, enhancing the urban landscape and deepening the connection to nature.”
Kengo Kuma’s design will feature the innovative use of natural materials such as timber and stone, while also allowing natural light to permeate the interiors. It aims to redefine affordable housing in Macquarie Park by integrating elements that foster a sense of community and connection to nature. The affordable housing units will be designed to connect residents to nature through gardens, natural light and ventilation, ensuring they have access to green spaces and a high quality of life.”
Kengo Kuma & Associates
kkaa.co.jp
Crone Architects
crone.com.au
