THE LIGHTS ARE ON AT LIGHT+CO. APARTMENTS
The lights are on as the first residents move in to Pradella's recently completed Light+Co. apartments in West End, which has been designed by renowned architects Rothelowman to honour the site's heritage and character.
Light+Co. has been developed on the Montague Road riverside site of the old South Brisbane Gas and Light Company, which was built in 1885 to deliver gas lighting to Brisbane's rapidly expanding population.
Fast forward just over 130 years and, standing alongside Davies Park and a new retail, dining, health and fitness precinct, is Light+Co's two residential buildings.
The two towers – Illuminate and Radiance – feature 228 one, two and three bedroom luxury apartments with a range of floorplans available to suit different purchasers. A limited number of apartments remain for sale priced from $420,000.
Rothelowman Associate Architect Simon Maurice says Light+Co.'s design bridges the past with the present.
"Light+Co.'s architecture is inspired by the site's industrial past, with rustic brick and corrugated metalwork framing 4,500sqm of contemporary tropical gardens, including the Reservoir resort-style pool with an expansive deck and pavilions along with a residents' lounge and function room," he said.
"Light+Co. is an interesting fusion of historic and contemporary design. The entrance features artefacts from the old gas and light company, and the industrial theme is carried throughout the apartments, with kitchens featuring a brick-style splashback, stone benchtops, an open pantry and exposed shelving.
"Industrial-themed designs are on-trend so the fitout at Light+Co. is considered quite contemporary, but most importantly we have worked hard to ensure that every apartment is comfortable and practical for residents.
"The apartments embrace their namesake with a light and airy design assisted by large windows, extensive living spaces and generous balconies, which provide the perfect outlook across West End's vibrant neighbourhood, along with views towards the city and surrounding parklands – which are a hotspot for weekend markets.
"The aim was to create a home that has a unique character, but at the same time provides a canvas for people to add their own personal touches and tailor the space to reflect their individual personality and lifestyle. "
Pradella director, Kim Pradella, says the completion of Light+Co. is the culmination of an 18 month construction program and the start of a new legacy for Brisbane's eclectic West End district.
Mr Pradella says West End is a core focus for the developer, builder and property management group, having invested significantly in the region over the years.
"Light+Co. is a fusion of West End's past and present, and a landmark for its future," he said.
“West End offers plentiful opportunities for developers due to its proximity to the city and appealing lifestyle offering.
“It is the perfect location for easy access to the CBD, making it highly appealing to Brisbane’s urban professionals and young families."
Mr Pradella says his personal connection to West End’s history meant he was committed to ensuring the Brisbane Gas & Light Company’s legacy was retained in the design of the new development.
“Having grown up in West End with my family, I have seen the area flourish and expand over the years while still maintaining its connection to the past, as well as its community feel,” he said.
"The river is just a short walk away and is fronted by kilometres of walking and cycling trails, and there's an Aldi Supermarket next door along with a number of gymnasiums and health & wellness stores nearby. Light+Co.'s location really takes advantage of all West End has to offer.
"It's been exciting to watch this community take shape over the past year and now I am looking forward to seeing the new residents settle into their homes ahead of Christmas."
Mr Pradella says Pradella Group remains active in the West End area, following the recent completion of its Gardens community, which is located on Duncan Street.
"Pradella has great confidence in West End as it is one of Brisbane's most transformative suburbs, with a distinct character which appeals to a wide range of people from young professionals right through to retirees," he said.
"Residents at Light+Co. will be able to move in and immediately take advantage of on-site facilities as well as the plethora of popular bars, cafes and restaurants lining Montague Road.
Light+Co. is located at 321 Montague Road West End, less than 2kms to the Brisbane CBD.
For more information, please visit lightandcoapartments.com.au