ARCHITECTURE
Curves and spirals shape Coast in Paradise
WORDS: Jason Oxenbridge PHOTOGRAPHY Supplied
If you ask architect Paul Buljevic what makes Sammut Group’s ‘Coast’ apartment tower different, he thinks about it in a practical sense.
Paul Buljevic explains: “The design concept for ‘Coast’ has been used in a pragmatic way with the four quadrants influenced by the fluid waveform to create a series of living pods, each with its own specific living use.” Inspired by the shaping and reshaping of the foreshore, each of the 37 floors has curving balconies. “It’s the rippling effect of waves washing across the sand bed,” observes Buljevic.
Reflected in Coast’s architectural form, curvature flows and spirals in concentric, circular shapes continue through each level of the tower up into the sky. The curved tower floats above a similarly shaped podium, where the form accentuates the differing functions, offering more amenity in the communal spaces.
Buljevic and his PBD Architects team have achieved balance between well-proportioned spatial planning while holding the integrity of the concept and architectural form. Columns and exposed forms are expressed with vibrant curves, almost like shells glinting in the morning sun. “There is a grounding of the fluid ribboning form into a fully functioning podium with substantial communal amenity and facilities,” he says.
Occupants have access and connection to the outside environment through an abundance of natural light, cooling sea breezes and endless ocean views. Configured to capture light, cooling sea breezes and endless ocean views, Coast is a superior oasis of tranquillity. Each floor is a haven of high-quality finishes and feature the finest
craftsmanship and bespoke inclusions while capturing 360-degree shimmering views of the coastline, the vast city skyline and the Gold Coast hinterland.
The cores are clad in natural stone, while vegetation and planting are dispersed throughout the extents of the podium and forms highlighting the natural connection with the surrounding coastal area. “The immediate context is critical in having a sense of place and accommodating a built form which sit comfortably with its surroundings – both natural landscape and emerging are built form character,” says Buljevic.
To create a visual connection with communal spaces, the rear communal grounds to the east are surrounded by a glass balustrade. Buljevic says this evokes a visual connection to the outside public spaces and creates a connection to the community while maintaining a secure place for residents and guests.
Generous balconies and floor-to-ceiling glazing take full advantage of the absolute beachfront location. As the building approaches Surfers Paradise Beach, it expands in form and expression. The spaces are larger and more dynamic with vegetation. Developing the concept of natural curved forms that guide the building, PBD Architects introduced natural elements throughout. Green areas are created throughout the podium levels and towards the west of the residential floors.
The vertical screens that surround the podium are to resemble timber and follow the curvature of the awnings. Meticulous thought has gone into the selection of the façade and interior materials, designed to open to expansive spaces tailored for functional living and maximum views. “Sammut Group, development partner Alceon and PBD Architects share a mutual commitment and passion for design, detail and execution,” says Buljevic. “The personal involvement and care of the Sammut directors is particularly evident in their dialogue with buyers and clients and their unwavering pursuit of delivering design intent.”
Coast is located at Garfield Terrace in the exclusive Northcliffe precinct of Surfers Paradise and includes four levels of resort-style amenities including two pools, a sunset bar and lounge, and extensive wellness and fitness facilities. Completion is slated for first quarter of 2025.
Visit www.coastgc.com.au