Sydney’s housing crunch is a growing challenge, but what if clever design could create more homes in tight spaces without sacrificing comfort or the environment? The Pointe Living apartment building in Edgecliff offers a fascinating answer. This nine-storey development transforms a single home site into ten unique apartments, serving as a compelling model for how cities can grow denser while remaining livable and green.
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The Challenge of Urban Space
Imagine trying to fit more homes into already crowded city neighborhoods. It’s a global issue, and Sydney is no exception. Building taller is one approach, but how do you do it gracefully, respectfully, and sustainably, especially on a narrow lot squeezed between existing buildings, a busy road, and a train line? This was the puzzle faced by Luigi Rosselli Architects.
The “Ribcage” Design: More Than Just a Pretty Face
Their solution is visually striking. The building appears as a central ‘spine’ with curving concrete beams radiating outwards like a ‘ribcage’. This isn’t just for looks; it’s a smart design move. These ‘ribs’ form the balconies, specifically angled and tapered to maximize northern sunlight (perfect for warm Australian winters) while protecting apartments from the harsh summer sun. This clever form also helps maintain privacy from neighbors, creating a sense of separation even in a dense setting.
Exterior view of the Pointe Living apartment building with curved concrete balconies radiating outwards
Apartments That Feel Like Homes
One common complaint about apartment buildings is their repetitive, standardized feel. Pointe Living aims to break that mold. Each of the ten apartments features subtle variations in layout, and interiors are highly customized to residents’ tastes.
Look closely, and you’ll find unique touches: walls with a rough, combed finish, exposed concrete ceilings that add industrial chic, elegant curved glass balustrades, and concrete beams with mirrored inserts. These details, curated with interior designer Romaine Alwill and featuring custom brass lighting by local artist Oliver Tanner, echo the character of older, interwar buildings in the area, giving the new development a sense of place and individuality.
Interior view of an apartment living space featuring bespoke wooden joinery and furniture
Entering the building itself is an experience, too. You approach via a winding path through a landscaped garden, leading to a welcoming communal lobby enclosed by a uniquely stacked curved brick screen.
Entrance path winding through lush landscaping towards the building's base made of sandstone blocks
Greener Living, Inside and Out
Sustainability is woven throughout the design. Beyond the smart solar orientation provided by the ‘ribs’, the building uses natural ventilation wherever possible. Most apartments have windows on at least three sides, and open central hallways connect to breezy entry lobbies, allowing fresh air to flow freely and reduce reliance on air conditioning.
On the roof, 66 solar panels generate renewable energy, helping to power the building and reduce its carbon footprint.
Aerial view showing the rooftop with an array of solar panels
The architects also embraced recycling and reuse. The site’s original swimming pool wasn’t filled in; it was cleverly repurposed into a water tank for irrigation and other uses. Sandstone blocks from the previous house and excavated during construction form the building’s strong, textured base, connecting the new structure to the site’s history. Even the gate from the old dwelling was saved and reinstalled in a communal area, a small but meaningful nod to the past.
Detailed view of the building's base constructed from large, textured sandstone blocks
Community and Connection
Apartment living can sometimes feel isolated, but Pointe Living encourages connection. In addition to private balconies, residents share access to beautifully designed communal gardens, BBQ areas, dining spaces, and an undercover swimming pool. These shared amenities provide valuable outdoor space and foster a sense of community among residents.
Communal outdoor dining area with a table, chairs, and landscaping
A Vision for the Future
Pointe Living demonstrates that increasing urban density doesn’t have to mean compromising on quality, comfort, or environmental responsibility. By focusing on unique design, tailored interiors, passive sustainability strategies, and communal spaces, Luigi Rosselli Architects have created a building that feels less like a block of units and more like a vertical neighborhood of distinct homes.
This project offers a compelling vision for how cities worldwide can build more housing while creating desirable, sustainable places to live, potentially serving as a blueprint for future urban developments.
Learn more about sustainable architecture or explore other examples of innovative residential design.
