Completed under Graham Price, Design Director at a previous practice

 

With the development of the Algarve Apartments the client embraced the opportunity to extend Mount Maunganui’s retail street. Located at the intersection of Tawa Street and Maunganui Road, the four-storey building addresses the corner site with confidence.

 

Because of its location it forms the gateway to the Mount and the transition from mainly residential to mainly commercial activity. This is recognized by the building’s scale and street presence.

 

The Algarve is a mixed used development, with retail units on the ground floor, car parking over two levels and three floors of 2-3 bedroom apartments. Each of the 39 apartments is accessible via a large inner courtyard, which provides a quiet sanctuary for the residents as well as protection from the elements. The courtyard is a landscaped space with communal entertainment decks enjoying morning and afternoon sunlight.

 

The introduction of Mediterranean colours in the façade, together with sliding louvre screens to filter the sunlight, give the building an identity in keeping with its seaside holiday theme.

 

The building is efficiently constructed of a concrete frame and precast panels, providing a solid and durable feel.