The Queenstown Country Club reshapes future of retirement living.
“We are creating somewhere that has a real buzz so is an exciting place to go in itself. It’s a multi-generational model that integrates rather than segregates.” Simon Taverner
Located between Lake Hayes Estate and the Shotover Country neighbourhood, the Sanderson Group development comprises over 230 private villas and apartments, a rest home and Dementia Care – but that’s where the similarities to the traditional model end. A civic space forms a lively heart to the wider residential area and the proposed retail centre, adjacent to the café, gym and pool, will contain services such as a florist, pharmacy, hairdressing salon and boutique bar. A clubhouse and medical centre are also part of the mix.
“We envisage that the central piazza could be used for farmers markets and community events, so the general public will have many opportunities to engage with the facility,” says Simon Taverner from Warren and Mahoney. Also planned is a childcare centre which will broaden the generational strata even further. “There are many young families in the area so we hope it will be well used.”
Buildings of different scale and geometries are linked by laneways and courtyards to create defined public, private and semi-public areas. The result is a development that steers clear of a monolithic imposition on the landscape with a rhythm that creates visual interest.
Situated on a prominent site on the approach road to Queenstown, it was important that the architecture embrace the regional vernacular. Respect is paid to local forms and materials. Gabled and pavilion-style buildings work well within the dramatic alpine environment and reflect the design of neighbouring properties.
Ian Adamson, Warren and Mahoney project director comments that natural materials such as stone and timber feature strongly but, rather than sliding into a pastiche of the local style, Warren and Mahoney has translated the elements in a contemporary way.
The Clubhouse has a visible position on Ladies Mile and its symmetrical gable and recessive colours share the style of notable buildings in the vicinity such as the nearby Amisfield Winery. “It’s set back from the road and understated but still impressive,” says Simon.
The 51-hectare estate is located within a Special Housing Area and a percentage of the properties within the development have been set aside to help address the district’s housing supply and affordability issues.
The variety of private villa types on offer are oriented for maximum sunlight and each typology provides private outdoor space.
When it is completed, the Queenstown Country Club will fill a real need for graduated retirement living in the area, providing a resort-like lifestyle as well as wraparound aged care. “Previously, there were no options for the elderly with particular geriatric issues. They had to move away from Queenstown,” explains Simon.
The project – the first of its kind in the Wakatipu Basin – will not only offer local retirees the option to stay in the region, but challenges the social thinking behind facilities of this nature. Simon Taverner: “We are creating somewhere that has a real buzz so is an exciting place to go in itself. It’s a multi-generational model that integrates rather than segregates.”
