The Sylvia Park Build-to-Rent development, located in Mount Wellington, Auckland, is New Zealand’s largest Build-to-Rent apartment scheme. The innovative concept of Build to Rent is relatively new to the country and allows for secure long-term rental accommodation as an alternative to home ownership. The project will provide 295 apartments across three residential buildings, located around a central communal open plaza and resident’s pavilion. The design combines references to the area’s historic industrial use and natural environment while providing modern apartment living that aims to foster a vibrant and healthy community with a strong sense of place.

Recognising the importance of community in a Build-to-Rent development, the design incorporates numerous communal amenities, such as a gym, theatre, and lounge facilities, and provides connections to nature via a landscaped plaza and revitalized neighbouring stream. These shared spaces aim to promote neighbourhood values and encourage social interaction among residents, fostering a strong sense of belonging and connection.

Drawing inspiration from the area’s industrial past, the design integrates a variety of different building heights, with strong building forms, highly articulated precast panels, large balconies, and areas of glass, all resulting in a development that aims to reference its surroundings and provides a transition between the site’s residential and commercial neighbours.

Ashton Mitchell is in collaboration with Australian-based i2C|Ryder to deliver this development.