A new development in the prestigious seaside suburb of St Heliers has added five whole-floor apartments to Auckland’s luxury residential market.
Designed by global architecture practice Buchan, the Sonata apartments offer spectacular views over the Waitemata Harbour, Rangitoto Island and across to the city. All the three-bedroom dwellings have direct lift access from the lobby and the basement carpark.
Buchan design principal Todd Crighton led the project and says the design takes its cue from the coastal spirit and existing character of St Heliers, taking full advantage of the site’s favourable northern aspect.
“Sonata has been sensitively designed to respect the scale of the surrounding homes and present a simple elegance to the street,” says Crighton. “Behind the public façade, the sloping site allows the apartments to open up to the remarkable northern views and light.”
The bold, organic form of the building draws inspiration from the gentle curve of the bay below and enables highly functional floorplans that deliver the same amenity as a traditional house. Floor to ceiling glazing on the northern side maximises the dramatic outlook. Levels two to five feature generous outdoor entertaining spaces whilst the level one apartment has an expansive terrace.
The floorplan offers good separation between shared and private spaces, with living areas and balconies projecting out to capture the sun and views. The master bedroom shares the harbour outlook, whilst secondary bedrooms offer a retreat on the street-facing corner.
An exterior of textured and polished concrete anchors Sonata’s fluid form, offset by dark zinc-coloured window and door frames, timber soffits and stone pavers.
This palette extends to Buchan-designed interiors, which exude warm, quiet luxury. Feature clouded white limestone plaster walls are complemented by timber floors and joinery, natural stone tiling and striking marble kitchens. Metallic accents and beautiful detailing combine to create a relaxed yet sophisticated ambience.
Buchan’s Auckland principal Rob Guild says Sonata sets a benchmark for the suburb and the city and suits downsizers and families alike.
“Whole floor apartments are perfect for couples or families looking for a different lifestyle whilst not compromising on space,” says Guild. “With its distinctive design, unrivalled views, beachside location and lock-up-and-leave convenience, Sonata is a rare offering for Auckland.”
Photography | Simon Wilson