The Curtain, by Tony Owen Partners has just been completed in Wolli Creek near Sydney Airport. The 15 storey building contains 200 units, retail and commercial space.
This site fronts onto a large park with the waterfront beyond. The unique design consist mostly of ‘through-units’ with an open rear corridor. As such almost all of the units face north and enjoy the panoramic views. The benefit of through-apartments is that they are naturally ventilated. This allows for natural cooling with reduced energy costs.
Twin 13 storey towers sit above a podium. The towers are linked is a single mass for the first 6 storeys then split to allow neighbours views. The podium creates a continuous activation along the park and contains cafes and commercial spaces. The podium roof contains communal outdoor spaces including a gym and swimming pool. The massing creates a progression which breaks down and dematerialises as it gets higher.
The design is inspired by the wave patterns of the nearby waterfront coastline. The supple curves reflect the tidal flows. A white wave pattern is achieved by alternating glass and pre-cast concrete to create the balcony curves and the sculptural form.