13 Semaphore Park

This project is a little different to your standard as it was a ZJ Building in-house development investment. We purchased an old 70’s home with the intention to knock it down, subdivide and build two high-end, luxury townhouses. We went through the process as if we were the customer; dealing directly with the architect/designer and making all the design decisions throughout the preliminary process.

We were limited with the block width and we didn’t want a ‘cookie cutter’ home which meant the front elevation and street appeal needed to have a point of difference to your average townhouse.

A lot of time and consultation was spent on the layout of the home and orientation of the block. South facing frontage meant we could choose some timber highlight features without risking a high maintenance, faded look over time.

Some non-negotiables in the design included some cool features such as a laundry chute, open style ensuite and free flowing function of the kitchen, butlers and walk in pantry with ample storage. The brief was to build a luxurious, high-end home that a family could create memories in for a lifetime. It had to be a turn key solution; fully landscaped and ready to move into.

Our Approach and Scope of Work:

With a large project ahead of us, we stayed focused on the result but kept thinking of ways to add those small differences that would stand out against your standard home. With a big long adjoining party wall, we opted for a system that allowed flexibility while maximising the footprint of the living. The CSR 360 party wall system allowed us to create in-wall niches along the fire rated party wall without compromising on the fire safety between the two properties.

Being a two-story home, we didn’t want a big blank wall of render or brick so we broke up the facade with different levels, textures and materials. We engaged an interior designer to assist with colour selection which also helped soften the facade. With a detailed colour schedule for external finishes, we had to ensure the trades were all up to speed and every detail was managed closely.

A big project that goes for almost an entire calendar year will go through every season and take its toll on the neighbours. A lot of effort was put into informing the neighbours of busier than normal days and when to expect high levels of activity or noise. The favours were returned in kind with full cooperation when updating fences and providing access to the rear gardens at late stages of the project. It was a great collaborative effort and we pride ourselves on maintaining relationships throughout pre and post construction with all parties involved – including neighbouring home owners.