Acclaimed design trio assembled for $100m Opera South Brisbane

A team of three acclaimed Brisbane architects and designers has been assembled by Melbourne-based developer the Kaias family to deliver a locally-inspired design at its $100 million Opera apartment project in South Brisbane.Architects Paul Fairweather and Tony Jemmott and interior designer Patricia Szonert – who have previously collaborated on projects including the Catalina Riverfront Houses and Saville Hotel in South Bank – will take leading roles in the design of Opera.The project, at 47 Cordelia Street, will feature 180 one, two and three-bedroom apartments as well as a stunning street-level entrance leading to ground-floor retail and office space.Mr Fairweather, of Fairweather Architecture, says while it is unusual for three architects to work on a residential project like Opera, collaboration is becoming more common.“Usually a single architecture firm will oversee the design of a project, but our respective expertise meant we could each bring something different to the table,” he said.“And we have a long-standing relationship having worked together many times before.“Our experience in the design of residential and mixed use projects in Brisbane means we are well equipped to deliver a project that suits the local market.”Mr Fairweather said the Kaias family, while intimately involved in commercial development in Brisbane, was making its first residential play in the city and sought the expertise of local architects to deliver a Brisbane-centric project.“National and international architects are increasingly moving into the Brisbane market and while that creates a great mix of design influences, what we bring to the table is an intimate understanding of the city,” he said.“For example outdoor living spaces are important here given our sub-tropical climate, so we have put a lot of time into maximising the usability of outdoor areas,” he said.“Apartments at Opera have proportionally large balcony spaces and the rooftop pool and entertaining area delivers on the outdoor lifestyle Brisbanites are so accustomed to.”Tony Jemmott, of Jemmott Associates, has assumed the role of lead design architect, while MMO Interiors’ Ms Szonert will work as lead interior designer. Mr Fairweather has taken an overview role.Mr Jemmott said the intention behind Opera’s design was to seamlessly integrate the urban intensity of South Bank and the Cultural Precinct with the opportunity to create apartment design for refined and elegant living.“For this reason the building was designed from inside out. Opera’s apartments visibly stack upon one another to create a 16-storey structure, which recalls a distinctly modernist aesthetic,” he said.“Floor to ceiling glazing allows for wide open views across the city skyline, local streets, parks and Mount Coot-tha beyond.“The beautiful glass façade rises elegantly over Cordelia Street - behind it, innovative homes with free-flowing living spaces, architecturally designed kitchens and bathrooms, all of which follow the mantra and sophistication of evolved modern living.”Mr Jemmott said the vibrancy of a new performance each night was the catalyst for incorporating a cross block link at the ground floor and the roof top entertaining space.“It is expected that the ground floor restaurant and café tenancies will provide additional amenities for the residents that is rarely seen in a residential building,” he said.The Opera sales centre is open daily by appointment, located at 47 Cordelia Street, South Brisbane.Apartments at Opera are priced from $385,000. Visit operasouthbrisbane.com.au for details.