Upper House in South Brisbane, Australia, is a multi-residential project that delivers 188 apartments over 33 storeys. The expressive form drew inspiration from the native Moreton Bay Fig tree and signals a new era in multi-residential design, where connection to nature, quality of design, resident wellbeing and environmental sustainability align.

The architecture celebrates Brisbane’s natural beauty and laidback urban lifestyle, punctuating the city skyline with a natural timber pergola and tropical rooftop oasis. A five-storey indigenous artwork at the building’s podium reflects our unique history. “Architectural ribbons” meander down the façade and the organic lines speak to the artwork by Australian artist Judy Watson. Bloodlines weaving string and water, 2023, brings to life indigenous history and traditional narrative around Australia’s first nations people.

A double-storey Wellness Club and resident facilities called Upper Club span the premium rooftop real estate. The top two levels, over 2,000m2, of world-class amenities are designed to foster interaction, build a sense of community and enhance resident wellbeing. Including: infinity pool, spa, saunas, fitness club and yoga studio amongst mature tropical landscaping. Also corporate boardroom, work from home facilities, lounge bar, cinema and private dining and wine cellars.

Responsible design decisions throughout see Upper House established as a model of sustainability and the building achieved 5-Star Green Star rating by the Green Building Council of Australia. Energy-efficient systems and adoption of recycled and renewable materials and resources minimise the impact and contribute to positive environmental outcomes.

• 40kL rainwater tank irrigates all plants
• Extensive landscaping provides insulation and reduces heat-island effect
• Building is designed with 20% reduction in water consumption
• Sustainable building materials used in construction (third party verified)
• 100% renewable energy procured for building’s electricity consumption
• 242 bicycle spaces and 60 Electric Vehicle charging spaces
• Achieved an 8.4 Stars through the NatHERS energy rating scheme

Upper House employs a combination of passive and active ESD strategies through design, construction and operation. The multi-residential tower has been registered with the Australian sustainability benchmarking tool - Green Star - and achieved a 5 Star Green Star rating and has achieved a NatHERS rating of 8.4 which indicates the building’s efficiency in terms of thermal comfort, minimizing reliance on air-conditioning and heating. Sustainable building materials were used and third-party verified.

Rainwater collection in a 40kL rainwater tank is used to irrigate the extensive landscaping. 4,024 plants were included on the rooftop and podium, which offer insulation and shading to protect against heat gain in the subtropical Brisbane, Australian climate.

FSC certified Siberian larch glulam timber was sustainably sourced, and chosen for its durability and longevity with respect to the Australian weather conditions. 1.6km of timber purlins shade the rooftop amenities and protect against the harsh summer sun.

The building is designed to reduce water usage by 20%, and Upper House has committed to 100% renewable energy for its electricity consumption. There are 194 resident bicycle spaces and 48 visitor bicycle spaces. Electric vehicle charging is currently available for 60 car parking spaces.