The Burcham launched last night, revealing an apartment development that is respectful of its heritage, but looking firmly to the future. The project comes from the Stable Group, an award-winning team that focuses on sustainable commercial and residential projects.

The development is centered around Rosebery’s 1918-built Wrigley’s gum factory. The development takes its name from the building’s original architect, John Burcham Clamp. Built from steel-reinforced concrete, the building was a modern marvel in its day.

Stable Group Director, Ed Horton, explained the importance of the Wrigley building. “It’s a wonderful old industrial heritage building with striking Chicago-esque architecture. Visually, it will be beautiful.”

Architects Allen Jack + Cottier have revitalised and extended the old building, with two contrasting contemporary buildings, and the project is defined by this interpretation of the historic site.

Horton described the approach, “It’s contrasting. The immediate impression when you look at the building is the old strong industrial architecture against the rather light modern contemporary. The new building uses lots of concrete, which reflects the heritage, and the industrial past. The new building has a similar palette of materials, but in a modern contemporary sense.”

One, two and three-bedroom apartments are available. In the Wrigley building, contemporary finishes blend with original features, with an emphasis on saving the building’s original charm. Ceilings are up to 4m high, providing unique grand and voluminous spaces. Large windows provide abundant natural light.

“People sometimes see old buildings as a weakness. We see it as a strength,” said Horton. “We’re not putting plaster ceilings in the building at all. Where there are bangs and bruises in the ceiling, where the impression of the formwork is still visible, we’re not going to plaster over that, we’re just going to leave it. So you’re going to see a lot of that rustic character come through,” he said.

Similarly, the original mushroom ‘capital columns’ have been retained, adding a unique element to the interiors.

Kitchens, living and dining areas blend seamlessly in the open-plan layouts. Polished concrete, lush carpet, and timber floors are used throughout. The kitchens are equipped with Miele appliances and stone benchtops, and the bathrooms are designed as luxurious spaces for relaxing.

The Burcham’s use of cutting-edge environmental technology sets it apart from other residential developments. A large Photovaltic Solar System will generate clean electricity for the base building, and will produce up to 50% of the average apartment’s hot water needs. “We generate 50% of the generic hot water needs on site, so you can extrapolate from that that your hot water bills are going to be halved,” said Horton.

An old water tower has been reimagined as a holding tank for harvested rainwater, which will be used for the garden and flushing toilets.

The concrete structure of the building meant the apartments were suited to being adapted for hydronic heating. “We’re putting a concrete topping on the existing slab and within that we’re putting water pipes. It’s a lovely natural way of heating,” said Horton.

The buildings have been designed for passive air management with the hydronic heating, and use of cross-flow ventilation and ceiling fans. Air-conditioning can also deliver a comfortable temperature all year round.

The Burcham has four electric car-charging bays. Horton explained their uniqueness. “We’ll have out own energy network on site, where energy is sourced and generated off the mains. So we can claim that, in part at least, you are charging your car from the sun.”

Highly efficient LED lighting is used throughout, which uses 75% less energy, and lasts 25 times longer than standard lighting.

Each apartment will have a Smart Meter, that will allow residents to manage their energy consumption.

Smart technology is another key feature of The Burcham. Biometric fingerprint recognition means a future without doorkeys. And number-plate-recognition technology means the building recognises your car as you enter the carpark.

The rooftop garden has been designed by Durie as a beautiful space for social gatherings, with barbecues, landscaped gardens, and shaded areas. The converted rooftop water tower doubles as an outdoor cinema screen.

The heart of the development is ‘Wrigley Common’, which is intended for a quieter outdoor experience. Gardening in this space is encouraged, with sheds provided for tools, and edible gardens connected by boardwalks.

“Everyone gets to share and enjoy the Wrigley Common,” said Horton. “It’s a place for quiet contemplation. You can potter in the garden, pick your herbs and spices, and carrots and zucchinis. It’s a nice space for people to potter in a safe, secure environment. If you’ve been living in a house, and making the transition to apartment living, you’ve still got access to that outdoor space here. In most residential apartment developments, the tenants and owners are not allowed to work in the gardens. In our building, we encourage it.”

The Burcham sits in the heart of Sydney’s most rapidly evolving suburb. Rosebery has become a cosmopolitan village with fantastic cafes, restaurants, pubs and bars within walking distance of The Burcham. Green Square train station is only 1.3km away, providing a 10-minute connection to the CBD.

Horton described Rosebery’s appeal. “Rosebery is transitioning from being a modern industrial suburb to being a really livable residential suburb. The first distillery in New South Wales, Archie Rose, opened up around the corner. Nearby, Koskela is opening four new restaurants and a farmers market.” The suburb is becoming known for high-quality, yet eclectic shopping and dining venues, often tucked away in quiet streets.

Horton explained that nearby Green Square is another boon for the area. “$9 billion is being spent on infrastructure and buildings at Green Square, so that’s parks, pools, schools, libraries, childcare, the train network, and the proposed light rail. That’s what the future holds.”

It seems The Burcham is looking to the future, while honouring the past.

For sales enquiries, please call 1800 561 886 or visit www.theburcham.com.au