Rhubarb Lane Set to Redefine Auckland's Historic Western CBD

Multiplex Living today announced that the limited release of No. 1 Rhubarb Lane, a sophisticated commercial and residential building designed by renowned Ian Moore Architects and developed by Rhubarb Lane Limited - will be revealed to the public in an exclusive launch in late April.

No. 1 Rhubarb Lane is the first building of six in the much anticipated Rhubarb Lane development and sits at the North- Western edge of the site at the junction of Sale Street and the future Rhubarb Lane. Comprising 12 freehold spaces suitable for residential, commercial or a combination of both, the building features a variety of layout options - a double-height ‘aPod’ loft-style with an atrium, a two storey apartment or a functional work space, all with secure parking and priced from $599,000.

Multiplex Living is choosing to operate on a fully refundable ‘expression of interest’ basis, with only those who have registered and paid a deposit able to attend the private launch appointment, take part in a presentation of the development and the pricing, and to potentially purchase a property. Confidence is very high for an immediate sell-out of the building, with a large guest list already tendering their interest.

Rhubarb Lane is a deeply considered and superbly designed mixed-use creative village, set at the heart of Auckland CBD’s historic Victoria Quarter. On completion, it will offer flexible live/work loft-style apartments over a thriving cobblestone street of boutiques, restaurants and provedores. Rhubarb Lane is set to transform the area, offering a style of urban living so desired internationally, but until now unavailable in Auckland.

Within a stones throw of the Sky Tower, the Victoria Quarter is home to some of Auckland’s most celebrated bars and restaurants and yet with the lush open spaces of Victoria Park at its feet, the area offers unmatched opportunities to live, work and play. It also boasts unrivalled proximity and access to the motorway network, public transport, and the area is already a well established hub for the creative businesses of Auckland.

Tim Willing Director Sales & Marketing, Australia and New Zealand for Multiplex Living says Victoria Quarter area has the right energy for such a unique development as Rhubarb Lane - the first Multiplex Living launched project in Auckland.

“Victoria Quarter has great connectivity on the edge of the city’s CBD with a vibrant and eclectic blend of creative businesses and residences,” said Mr Willing. “Our job is to holistically take those elements native to the area and bring them to life - to create this energetic, exciting village in an area that is quite dynamic already,” he said.

Multiplex Living has an extensive 40 years of experience in the creation of large-scale stylish, mixed-use developments throughout Australasia and the UK and the company is relishing the opportunity of being involved with a project of this type of in Auckland.

“What is exciting people is the opportunity to get in on the ground floor of an up-and-coming revitalisation of the entire area. There is a strong underground vibe - Auckland is ready for this kind of property offer,” he said.

No. 1 Rhubarb Lane is a testament to precision with a contemporary, minimalist feel and distinctive detailing. Bold and unapologetic in its architectural bones, the building envelope speaks a language of form and function, softened by organic shapes and a transparent nature and designed to stand in sunshine throughout the morning and afternoon.

A large sun-screening perforated veil to the north is an eye-catching architectural feature, taking on a number of different forms and colours in changing sunlight while providing residents with essential shading and privacy.

Each of the building’s 12 aPod studio loft apartments are suitable for residential living or commercial occupation; some layouts are split into two storeys, and there are layout options which feature double height spaces with an open atrium that creates a strong sense of space. Interiors are daring with the highest quality kitchens and bathrooms, characterised by colour-backed glass and caesarstone. Car parking is tucked underground, while a carefully landscaped park will provide green space for residents.

The architect, New Zealand-born Ian Moore is one Australasia’s most celebrated architects responsible for designing some of the most prestigious commercial and residential buildings in Australia and internationally. His projects are known for their immaculate style, distinctive contemporary approach and clever use of space saving design.

Ian has won numerous national and international awards with landmark projects including Air Apartments on the Gold Coast; 2 Kings Lane the Altair Apartments and 138 Barcom Avenue Apartments in Sydney; and the Price/O’Reilly House in New Zealand.

Ian says when he designs he always looks at the design from the perspective of those who will occupy it. “It must allow for their comfort, enjoyment and give them the ability to mould that space to suit them,” he says. “I don’t operate with a preconceived idea and then try to force the elements into that exterior envelope, I work from the inside out,” he said.

The first and limited release will be launched for sale by Multiplex Living in late April 2010 and all initial enquiries should be directed to Andrea Butt +64 9 309 2524.