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REMI Residences by REMI Developments and BDA Architecture
Broadbeach’s identity finds its grounding in a blend of coastal and urban ideals, thanks to its growing density and proximity to the beach. Set in its heart is REMI Residences by REMI Developments and BDA Architecture, a new multi-residential development that embraces both conditions with an effortlessness redolent of the locality itself.
The development comprises 49 luxury residences, a wellness centre with a sauna and steam room, a gym, pool and various communal spaces across 30 levels. Peter Wilding, CEO of the Malouf Group of Companies and Ian Malouf, founder of REMI Developments, were interested in delivering a premium project in keeping with the area. “What we’ve tried to do is deliver a luxury product – and that doesn’t mean opulent and unliveable,” says Wilding. “This is really about having luxury where it’s comfortable for you to live. It’s generous in space, generous in height, with a hospitality positioning.”
Though the form feels contextually relevant, the angular design – which is linear at the base with a sharper profile on the upper levels – helps to differentiate it from surrounding towers of similar height and massing. “That shift in the form really reinforces REMI Residences’ unique identity,” says architect Darren Greenaway. “It’s a seemingly small thing but it helps to break down the scale of the building, which makes an impact, particularly when viewed within the context of the area.”
The articulated facade varies in porosity and tone, softening its visual impact and helping to settle it in place. Extensive landscaping was also integral to this outcome and, consequently, greenery is abundant. “Broadbeach has a lot of open space and landscaping, so we really wanted to promote and activate the streetscape through planting as it creates consistency,” says Greenaway. At the base, trees frame the entry and greenery cascades from the podium levels, enveloping the form and creating a dialogue with the surrounding sub-tropical fabric. Malouf also notes the importance of the entry point in setting the tone for the project, and the impact of the seven-and-a-half-metre-high porte cochère.“One thing in particular we take a lot of pride in is [how] we’ve integrated the front of the building with the footpath,” he says.
REMI Residences’ shared amenities play a heavy hand in enhancing its appeal and liveability. “What we have is all of the hotel-esque services with grand residences sitting above it,” says Wilding. On the second level, a north-west-facing outdoor terrace captures afternoon sun and views to the ocean, and the pool is the perfect spot to retreat to year-round. In the communal kitchen area, there is a full suite of Fisher & Paykel appliances. The French Door Refrigerator Freezer, Column Wine Cabinet and dishwasher are integrated, and the five-zone induction cooktop and minimal range ovens enhance the cooking experience. There are also extras such as a Fisher & Paykel Warming Drawer, Vacuum Seal Drawer and a coffee maker, making for a well-appointed area accessible to all residents that can be “booked for private events or used as a communal space and shared by everyone in the building,” says Greenaway.
Each of the residences exudes a similar level of amenity and sophistication. Custom joinery, generous apertures and outdoor terraces all contribute to this effect, as does the pared-back palette of darker hues and tactile materials. “We really wanted to create a resort-style feel as opposed to the more coastal aesthetic usually seen in the area, and for us, that meant providing lots of custom joinery including a bar as well as luxury appliances – many of which are integrated.”
The developer and architect worked closely with Fisher & Paykel to create a “bespoke design package” for the various apartment typologies. The marriage of an oven, microwave oven and steam oven offers an elevated experience, giving home cooks access to premium cooking technology and design within their own kitchens. Paired with an Induction Cooktop and an Integrated Dishwasher and rangehood, the kitchens – which are anchored by island benches and adjacent to large dining tables – are primed for entertaining. “These are minimal, sleek, clean-look appliances that are functional, practical and user-friendly. Their design matches the high-end feeling of the apartments and is well-suited to our darker joinery with its brass and bronze details.”
There is also a butler’s pantry tucked to the side with additional bench space and an Integrated Refrigerator Freezer, as well as a bar area with a dishwasher and more cooling facilities including a wine cabinet. The refrigerator and freezer are large enough to cater to any hosting requirements without dominating the design or overwhelming the scale and layout of each apartment. As well, the ability to conceal these pieces within the cabinetry allows the pared-back aesthetic to prevail, creating visual continuity and calm in the open-plan space and enhancing the luxury-leaning principles that guide these interiors.
Featuring a distinct connection to the outdoors, the everyday experience of REMI Residences – from the shared outdoor terrace and fully equipped communal kitchen to each meticulously conceived apartment – is enhanced by its immediate context. As Greenaway explains, this is imperative on the Gold Coast, where indoor-outdoor living is celebrated and even the staunchest urbanite is easily swayed by the beachy atmosphere and coastal energy.
Architecture and interior design by BDA Architecture. Development by REMI Developments. Build by Hutchinson Builders. Landscape design by Urbis and Place Design Group. Appliances by Fisher & Paykel.
