Urban discusses Surfers Paradise apartment block Chevron One with Bensons senior development manager Alberto Palombaro
Chevron One is the $230 million Surfers Paradise apartment block set to rise 40 levels on the Chevron Island's Stanhill Drive.
Developed by Bensons Property Group, Chevron One will comprise 236 one, two and three bedroom apartments. Bensons collaborated with Marchese Partners in the sculptural design of the tower.
Urban sat down with Bensons Property Group senior development manager Alberto Palombaro to discuss Chevron One's design and the 2021 apartment market.
Q: Have you seen an increased demand for high-end properties on the Gold Coast in recent months? If so, which aspects of Chevron One set the development apart from other properties on the market right now?
Since the start of the pandemic, our level of enquiry for high-end properties in the $2m+ range at Chevron One has really spiked, resulting in a handful of very large, high-end residences at Chevron One selling to local owner-occupiers. Buyers at this level expect quality fixtures, fittings and appliances plus the ability to customize the design where requested.
In terms of what sets Chevron One apart, I would say our level of quality and finish compared to the competition, our ‘never to be built out’ views, and of course the 2000sqm of amenity in the building – one of the largest amenity offerings of any new development on the Gold Coast.
Q. What do you perceive the top design trends to be for apartments in 2021 and how does Chevron One utilise these trends to elevate its design?
There’s no doubt that 2020 has been a year like no other. And if there’s one thing we’ve learned it’s this – there’s no place like home. Australians are spending more time there than ever before. It has become our happy place, a sanctuary to style our way, all to ourselves. This year also gave most of us a taste of what it’s like to really work from home – and it turns out we love it. We can expect to see a demand for new ways to integrate clever working areas into home designs that inspire creativity and opens the ability to work in sync with cooking and the kids. Less clutter, less to clean. We can see this change particularly in the kitchen, I think fewer materials, using the countertop as the backsplash for a more seamless design, and hidden or no hardware altogether. Anything that makes cleaning easier is a win-win.
As well as being aesthetically on-trend; functionality and liveability has been a key focus in the design of Chevron One. Indoor-outdoor living was always a key focus for our floor plans, meaning larger balconies that become an extension of your living and entertaining spaces. Paired with floor to ceiling windows and open plan design this has been a key drawcard for the project.
Q: As we know, the project’s kitchens are designed by Shannon Bennet, do you anticipate other residences to follow suit with kitchen designs by renowned chefs?
Yes, that has now been a trend for a few years and it’s only growing. Chefs have a passion for cooking, and they spend most of their time either in commercial kitchens (at work) or in residential kitchens (at home). They have very strong practical skills and the vision for step-by-step meal preparations. They have extended knowledge of state of the art appliances and what’s the best on the market.
Q: Could you please tell us a bit about the three design schemes? Where did you draw inspiration from?
All four schemes have been created to place value on instilling balance and calm in the living spaces. We have used soft, warm and comforting tones and textures using as much natural materials as possible. Attention to detail, the use of textures, beiges and browns, and inspirations from the beautiful island of Chevron is where we draw our inspiration from.
Q: What is your favourite feature of Chevron One’s design?
The wrap-around, curved balconies with glass balustrading allowing residents unobstructed views from their kitchen, all the way out to the Pacific Ocean, Nerang River, Broadwater and Gold Coast Hinterlands – a truly unique design element that not only looks stunning but maximises the views.
Q: What are some of your favourite amenities within walking distance from the development?
The recently completed HOTA is a great new addition to the local area and is only a 5-minute walk from Chevron One. Sunday’s at HOTA feature Farmers Markets, live music and kids’ activities, as well as monthly concerts and performances. The Thomas Drive retail strip has also come alive in recent years with great coffee, restaurants, and bars with more on the way.