Residential

This Stage saw the construction of 123 apartments over 3 buildings within an attractive landscaped setting, complementing the 37 townhouses (Stage 1) completed in 2020.  AMC has been involved in this project since 2011 from the preparation of initial masterplanning options for the site, to extensive community engagement to leading a Territory Plan Variation process. Thereafter AMC prepared detailed design and construction documentation and supported Lockbridge, Project Coordination and Chase with construction of the apartment and townhouse dwellings.  Our architecture and interiors team worked closely with CHC Australia, leading a sophisticated and constructive community consultation process to deliver a high quality, contemporary residential development that offers a range of housing options (including accessible dwellings), reflects the character of the heritage listed CSIRO Experimental Station (now Downer shops) through material selections and architectural form. The project also respects key features of the site including the preservation of a number of significant Heritage Trees and the “old school courtyard” while reinforcing pedestrian linkages to the Downer Local Shops, playing fields and broader community.  CHC Australia is a long-term client of AMC and we welcomed this opportunity to once again support the organisation, noting that the proceeds of “The Bradfield” will assist CHC in providing future affordable housing initiatives within Canberra.

We love the opportunity to take on small commissions that have the potential to become something truly special.  “Nguurruu” in Gundaroo is an excellent example of this.  AMC and Indesco initially developed a redevelopment masterplan to assist the clients in refining their vision for the property and to prioritise and stage future development. Completed earlier this year, Stage 1 involved the adaptive reuse of an existing barn to a luxury self-contained two-bedroom retreat with associated external works and landscape terracing to complement the rural setting. AMC’s architectural planning and interior design scheme makes the most of the barn’s footprint and vaulted ceilings, showcasing the expansive vistas across the Southern Tablelands and creating a comfortable sanctuary through the use of natural textiles, timbers, stone and copper. The Barn provides visitors with a “place to unwind, relax and explore” and the opportunity to learn about biodynamic and regenerative farming within a stunning country setting.  Visit the Nguuruu website here https://www.nguurruu.com/ to book your stay!

AMC are very pleased to announce that DHA’s latest development at Academy Close, Campbell has just been approved through the NCA. In close proximity to ADFA, this new mini-residential subdivision includes 30 dwellings comprised of 5 very different typologies to meet Defence personnel requirements and different banding levels noting most of the residents will likely work nearby. The architectural character references key identifiable characteristics of RMC Duntroon and ADFA respectively through the use of expressed gabled roof forms and a more commercial materials palette of masonry and metal cladding expressed in a modern and understated way. Single and two storey dwellings have been carefully sited and arranged to maximise solar access, preserve existing mature trees, create attractive useable outdoor areas, play down the impact of garaging and achieve a compelling overall composition that responds to site contours and features. The interiors design concept, also developed by AMC references the architectural character of the dwellings while bringing a warmth and charm to the living experience of residents. An integrated landscape design concept augments the bush setting while providing attractive streetscape settings and private garden areas. Construction is likely to commence later in 2020.

With a colourful history as part of an early WW1 Experimental Station for Poppy flower propagation for medicinal purposes and then as the Downer Primary School, the substantial site adjacent to Downer Shops is moving into a new phase offering genuine housing choice for the north Canberra community. Stage 1 of “The Bradfield”, developed by CHC Australia, is now complete including 37 Townhouses. AMC was first commissioned back in 2013 to lead a masterplanning study, sustained community engagement and then a Territory Plan change for CHC. With strong support from the Community, AMC then developed a detailed concept for the eastern and central portions of this substantial site which will ultimately include the construction of 160 residential dwellings across 6 buildings. The development concept is inspired by its attractive landscaped setting nestled in among magnificent old stands of pine trees and the simple pitched roof form of the nearby heritage-listed CSIRO Experimental Station (now Downer Shops). The materials palette is a nod to the original character of red brick / dark roof tiles so common in the area and the retention of the “Old School Courtyard” is an attractive landscape heart to the development for all to use. Stage 2 of the Bradfield is now well into construction, so more to come.

For more information on the project visit: https://amcarchitecture.com.au/portfolio/downer-mixed-use-development-downer/

The recently completed Monash PHRT project was officially opened today, marking the 1000th public housing dwelling to be handed over to Housing ACT as part of the ACT’s Public Housing Renewal Taskforce program.  The program commenced in 2015 and is close to achieving its objective of renewing a total of 1,288 dwellings by June 2019.  AMC is proud to have been a part of the PHRT Monash project, working with Boss Projects Group to deliver 17 townhouses and 13 apartments offering tenants energy-efficient homes that are close to public transport, shops and local amenities.  Read more about this project here.

A striking contemporary sculpture has recently been installed at AMC’s Denman Village Shops development.  ANU Fine Arts student, Naomi Taylor Royd,  won a competition run by Capital Estates with her Eucalyptus Triad sculpture, “inspired by the simple organic shapes of native eucalyptus trees”.  The artwork consists of three 6m high curvilinear steel elements painted a bold red which are now installed in the main forecourt of the retail precinct.  The sculpture is the latest addition to the recently completed development designed by AMC and complements the bold curves and natural materials palette which also take their cue from the natural surroundings and features of the Molonglo Valley.  Read more about the sculpture here.

AMC-designed townhouse development for Domain Design Projects is currently under DA assessment and recently featured in the Canberra Times.  The development includes 10 townhouses (a mix of 3 and 4 bedroom houses) with basement parking located on Oliver Street close to Lyneham shops, Dickson and a new light rail station.  Read more about this project here.

After 13 years, the Giralang community will soon have a new vibrant local centre after Planning Minister Mick Gentleman recently called in and approved a proposed four storey, mixed-use development including a 1,000sqm supermarket, community spaces and residential apartments.  This is an exciting and long-awaited result for Giralang Properties, AMC and the Giralang community and is a positive outcome after a series of setbacks since the original shops closed in 2005.  Construction is due to commence in October 2018 with the supermarket operational from late-2019.  Watch this space!  Read more here.

Construction of Canberra Airport Group’s new Denman Prospect village centre will commence soon.  AMC’s contemporary design for this unique and exciting development features high quality materials, views across Craven Creek Reserve and offers residents a variety of shops, restaurants and a stand-a-lone medical centre as well as townhouse residences overlooking the Molongolo Valley.  Read more about this project here.

AMC, the MBA and the LDA recently partnered with Renaissance Homes to design and deliver a new Charity House Project for 2016. The LDA contributed two adjoining separate title in-fill parcels of land in Deakin and MBA members, led by Renaissance Homes and AMC, donated (or provided at low cost) professional consultancy services, construction materials and labour. This is the third Charity House Project of its kind and is expected to raise more than $1m for three local charities.  Read more about this project here.