Upper House by Koichi Takada Architects and Aria

Addressing the issue of ‘connection deficit’ in vertical living, Upper House fosters a sense of community among residents. Designed by Koichi Takada Architects on behalf of developer Aria, the curvilinear apartment building proposes a healthier way of inhabiting a city.

Located in South Brisbane, known widely as a social and cultural hub, Upper House is surrounded by art galleries, theatres, restaurants and cafes. Taking cues from the urban environment, the project invites people to come together: while the building provides 1000 square metres of communal amenities, it’s also a striking work of art. Michael Hurley, development director at Aria, describes the winning design as “a series of dancing balconies” with timber ribbon running up the facade and a triple-height timber rooftop. “[The design] just screamed out and said ‘world-class, never-been-done-before’. It was curvy, it was organic, it was unique, and it was Aria” he says.

“[The design] just screamed out and said ‘world-class, never-been-done-before’. It was curvy, it was organic, it was unique, and it was Aria.”

At the base of Upper House, a large podium displays artwork by Indigenous artist Judy Watson. The piece acknowledges the Turrbal people as the traditional owners and custodians of the land on which the project is built. Beyond the podium, the facade is inspired by Moreton Bay fig trees – what can be interpreted as ribbons are timber ‘roots’ framing the main structure. Curling around the roof, the striking details form a pergola and shading device that protect the open wellness retreat. “[With this design] we can bring people together to challenge and address what we call ‘connection deficit’, but also reconnect with this garden space that appears on top of the building and celebrate biodiversity,” says Koichi Takada, principal at Koichi Takada Architects. With its allusions to roots and tree canopies, the building also celebrates the subtropical climate of South Brisbane.

“The interiors are neutral and timeless,” says Georgia Wilson, director at Koichi Takada Architects, “and they really slow you down from the fast-paced environment that we’re used to living in.” A rational floor plan combines with high ceilings, full-height windows and skylights to establish relaxing and light-filled apartments. In addition, a restrained decorative palette of natural materials allows residents to personalise each space. “The timber flooring and joinery are consistent in colour to really bring in the ambience of the outside,” says Wilson. “It’s a building that breathes and allows you to slow down and breathe with it.”

“It’s a building that breathes and allows you to slow down and breathe with it.”

Incorporating city views, organic forms and natural materials, Upper House enables effortless immersion within the South Brisbane surrounds. Balancing a sense of the urban and organic, Koichi Takada Architects and Aria create healthy living environments in which residents can connect to one another.

Architecture by Koichi Takada Architects. Build by Minicon. Development by Aria Property Group.