How Machu Picchu inspired Rothelowman when designing Hawthorn Park
Hawthorn Park may well be the only apartment development in Melbourne, likely the whole of Australia, which was influenced by one of the seven modern wonders of the world.
Renowned architecture firm Rothelowman were inspired by rice paddy fields and the spectacular stone terraces of Machu Picchu, which has resulted in stunning internal architectural facades and a lush valley landscape at the recently completed Hawthorn East project.
The design incorporates ideas of movement and gently curved eroded forms to create a layered spatial experience that provides visual connection, interest, and recreation.
The central zones feature softly edged designs, while a hard blue stone envelope has been established around the perimeter to create a sense of protection and containment. The hard edge is driven by a series of feature elements that visually break down the composition along the street and create a sense of community identity.
Rothelowman's interior design team takes pride in the level of premium design features they have incorporated, including island benches, gun-metal tapware, Miele/Gaggenau appliances, and walk-in robes in most apartments.
Located at the intersection of Burwood Road and Camberwell Road, Hawthorn Park features public piazzas that draw the existing green edge of Burwood Road through to the more robust presentation of Camberwell Road.
The site's entry points are adorned with feature stairs that cut a pathway into the open contoured space, which is activated with resident amenity, retail, and food and beverage options.
The centrepiece of the development is a glass-bottomed swimming pool that spans between buildings and over the plaza, creating a spectacular front door to the project while also serving as the location for the comprehensive resident amenity floor. It was Melbourne's first ever suspended sky pool.
Rothelowman Senior Associate Frances Hall said it was the feature of the development they were most looking forward to seeing.
“We were most excited about delivering the pool bridge as it is testament to our collaboration with the contractor Point Cook and the consultant team, to realise a design which resolves many complex requirements,” Hall said.
Landscape designer Jack Merlo was responsible for crafting 2000 sqm of landscaping, carefully considering quiet reflection in traditional garden areas while inspiring active recreation on the rooftop terraces.
