26 Aroha Avenue
This Build-to-Rent project sets a new benchmark for low carbon apartment living, and is only the second apartment building in the country to receive a 10 Homestar rating.
Project Details
| Client | Blair and Jules Mackinnon |
| Sector | Residential |
| Location | Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland |
| Discipline | Architecture, Interior Design |
| Status | Completed 2020 |
| Size | 1,700 sqm |
An ethical development model
Privately owned and developed, 26 Aroha is a build-to-rent development that has been designed to provide increased security of tenure in the New Zealand rental market. With this aspirational project, the client hopes to achieve an attractive, long term, rental alternative to residents, providing a level of lifestyle typically reserved for homeowners.
This medium density solution includes high quality, robust materials and sustainable design features that significantly reduce energy and water use. 26 Aroha provides a sustainable roadmap for increasing residential density in the coming years.
Living in a low carbon future
26 Aroha is one of the first projects locally to capitalise on the opportunities provided by the Auckland Unitary Plan changes. Where there was once one house, there are now thirteen generously appointed apartments of various sizes. The four storey building fits within the parameters of a Terraced Housing and Apartment Building (THAB) zone and is an innovative example of what can be achieved on a 900m2 site close to public transport and amenities, where owning a car isn’t a necessity of daily life.
The building’s proximity to public transport, schools and amenities reinforces the viability of a low-carbon lifestyle, which serves the building’s purpose to be a safe, sociable, and community-oriented building. It is just the second New Zealand apartment building to receive a 10 Homestar rating, and carbon lifecycle assessments have shown the design to have reduced carbon by 73% and saved residents 53% of their utility costs compared to the Auckland average. Bike and scooter storage, e bike charging points, and a shared electric car are provided, but there are only three rentable car parks on site. Solar hot water, rainwater harvesting, and photovoltaics reduce energy and water use.
A different kind of suburban life
26 Aroha provides a viable long term rental option to New Zealanders, inspired by European apartment living. Thirty percent of the building consists of shared amenities, including a laundry, a guest entertainment area, and bookable overnight guest accommodation.
This quantity of shared amenities supports the establishment of strong community links between tenants within the building.
Media
TVNZ: Climate Special
NZGBC: 26 Aroha Avenue's 10 Homestar Rating
Awards
| 2022 | Interior Awards - Multi-Housing |
| 2021 | NZIA Local Awards - Housing, Multi Unit |