Northbridge
Vista Apartments
A core tenet behind wellness-focused architecture is that it drives improvements in quality of life. This is of particular significance in the retirement and aged care sector. One organisation that has embraced the wellness philosophy is not-for-profit Northbridge Lifecare Trust – with the launch of Vista Apartments in Northcote, Auckland.
This project was the first stage of Northbridge Village's multi-phase revitalisation project, and Klein has subsequently delivered two further stages of multi-unit retirement apartments for the client.
Sleek interiors, modern and beautifully detailed, Northbridge Lifecare Trust’s Vista Apartments wouldn’t look out of place alongside Auckland’s most exclusive retirement developments. Located in the heart of a 5.8-hectare retirement village in Northcote, the development represents the changing face of senior living in New Zealand.
Opened by Auckland Mayor Phil Goff in July 2018, the build incorporates 31 high-end living units, as well as extensive facilities, over five storeys.
Northbridge Life Care Trust was founded on a ‘care for life’ principle, which is essentially a full continuum of care service, from independent living right through to dementia and hospital care. V Apartments is designed for self-sufficient older residents, with the clear intention to extend the independent living phase for as long as possible – an important consideration for the health and happiness of occupants.
This is reflected in the interior design. Spacious and open-planned, much thought is given to the flow between living zones, as well as the accessibility of appliances and fixtures. Residents also enjoy access to an onsite day pavilion, swimming pool, gymnasium, movie theatre, as well as secure basement parking.
One of the main challenges faced by the project was the steep, narrow strip of site it occupies, bounded by two roads on the campus. However, the design solution cleverly turns complexity into a key benefit, allowing each unit to be dual aspect, maximising natural daylight on both sides. This also enhances residents’ panoramic outlook throughout the building with framed moments of beauty across to the nearby wetlands.