First look exclusive: Central Element's ultra-luxe Bondi Beach plans revealed
Luxury apartment developer Central Element has revealed what it intends to do with its prime Bondi Beach site they acquired last year.
The developer, led by Nathan Chivas, has filed plans for seven luxury residences on the amalgamated 2,050 sqm site fronting Sandridge and Wilga streets.
CE paid around $50 million for 20-22 Sandridge Street and 21 Wilga, Street a sloping block which runs down to the Bondi to Coogee walk.
At the top of the site fronting Sandridge Street there will be two duplex-style homes above a turntable parking system which will offer each residence two parking spaces.
Flipping the traditional home on its head to maximise the ocean views from the living spaces, CE had Brian Meyerson's MHNDUnion position the three bedrooms on the ground level. The master suite, at the rear of the building, will feature a walk through wardrobe, ensuite, and a 35 sqm terrace with a plunge pool and a built-in barbecue and bar space.
Above is the main kitchen living and dining area with over 90 sqm of internal living space and a terrace at either end of the home.
The project from Sandridge Street. Image credit: MHNDUnion
The other five residence will be located at the other end of the site, divided from the homes by extensive landscaping by Dangar Barin Smith.
The lower ground level of the boutique apartment building will home two 150 sqm, side-by-side apartments with three bedrooms and a 65 sqm terrace with a pool.
The ground level is a 190 sqm unit with three bedrooms, a study space, and a living space which opens to a full width 95 sqm terrace with a spa.
Above will be arguably the most impressive residence of all, a 217 sqm apartment with three bedrooms, a home office that could double up as a second living room, and the same size terrace as below with the best views over the ocean.
MHNDUnion noted in their Design Statement submitted to the Waverley City Council that the sloping terrain offers excellent vantage points showcasing Ben Buckler, Bondi Beach, and Squid Bay to the north and northeast.
"Benefiting from proximity to the vibrant Bondi life, the site is conveniently close to the commercial strip along Bondi Road, and a number of shops, restaurants, and bars including Bondi Iceberg. Additionally, it establishes a more secluded connection with the surroundings, providing access to views in the north/ northeast and the coastal walk on the east."
They said the architectural design of the residential flat building at the rear adapts to the sloping site by incorporating stepped structures.
"The residential flat building incorporates sculptural blade walls and textured panels on its facade, strategically opening towards the scenic views. In contrast, the houses exhibit a simpler built form with brick details and undercover entries along the building’s sides."
"The proposal will provide a high quality and sympathetic addition to the neighbourhood, whilst offering a variety of housing options for different demographics and living needs."
When speaking to Nathan Chivas late last year, he said when developing in the best locations, you have to create an A-grade product.
“If you find a location and create A-grade product that matches that location, then you know you’ll have strong demand no matter where the property cycle is at,” Chivas says.
He spoke about having to bring a story to life at the top end of the market, whether it's through bringing in heritage or other luxury design element.
"Ultimately these types of developments need to be a cut above the rest. They need to be more than an apartment in a great location. The money demanded by these projects, and the buyers of the projects, demand nothing less."
