NOMA Residences: Plus Architecture

Upon arrival, the juxtaposition of brick and foliage can be recognised in the context of the surrounding urban environment. The hand-laid bricks settle the structure into the neighbourhood, as the textures and imperfections create a cohesive, established aesthetic. The brick diminishes as the building rises, replaced with the sweeping curvature of each balcony that steps back from the River Red Gum established on site. The curves soften the exterior as the design of the balconies delicately sit contrasted against the rough texture and rigid edges of brick. The balconies enable privacy without disrupting the views across the lake and beach.

Retaining the native River Red Gum was key to the spatial design intentions of the project, breaking up the facade to not overwhelm the view, creating a visual of delicate density. In an era where all available land is consumed by the built environment, NOMA reimagines open space, incorporating a laneway that traverses the site. The exposed passage connects the site to the sky and opens a path of travel for the community to access the nearby train station. The retail tenancies that form the foundation of NOMA are dynamic in that they can separate for individual opportunities or become a collection to suit the changing needs of the community.

Each apartment boasts generously appointed open balconies. The grand rooftop becomes a place to relax with communal amenities, comfortably furnished, and opening to a terrace above the canopy of the River Red Gum. Built-in seating surrounding the tree allows residents the ability to claim the park as an extension of their yard. Thus, NOMA acts as a local landmark and community meeting place.

The addition of secure lockers for couriers to leave packages, doubleheight communal spaces and keyless apartments create a feeling of luxury and ease. Other features include the display of the local train departure times in the lobby, allowing residents to plan trips accordingly.

Patric Przeradzki, director at Plus Architecture, says the legacy of architecture is posed in a question: How does the project improve the neighbourhood or interactions with the built environment, and how does this affect the design response? Patric remarks on how NOMA is an example of brilliant clients and their support of policy, leaving space on the canvas for other professions to make their mark. The details of hanging art, sculptures, and creative landscaping enrich the project.