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Acknowledging the past, designed for the future

Generus Group has accrued a team of experienced designers, architects, and construction experts to bring its flagship development, The Foundation, to life.

Jul 14, 2021

With numbers of those who will choose residential retirement living anticipated to accelerate dramatically over the next decade, many new properties will need to be developed.

In the heart of Parnell, a later-life living development unlike any other is taking shape. Through a joint venture with the Royal New Zealand Foundation of the Blind, a 2.5-hectare property has been made available to premium retirement village developers, Generus Group, to create New Zealand’s first six-star retirement residence.

With the residents of surrounding Remuera and Parnell in mind, The Foundation is looking to cater to those moving from substantial family homes. Naturally, quality and design remain paramount. What’s more, part of the Foundation development will see Generus strengthening and refitting a beloved 95-year-old heritage building.

An undertaking of this scale requires premium partners. Generus has recently confirmed the expertise of Kalmar Construction will be onboard to ensure the Foundation residence will be a world-class facility that Auckland can be proud of.

Kalmar joins The Foundation’s renowned architect, Peddle Thorpe, and award-winning interior designer, Stewart Harris. Having been the builders behind some of Auckland’s finest apartment developments over the past 20 years, Kalmar has the experience, reputation, and passion to deliver an outstanding build.

Recently, to celebrate ground being broken on the exciting new project, future residents, project consultants and honoured guests gathered at Parnell’s historic Jubilee Hall.

Speaking at the event, Auckland Mayor Phil Goff acknowledged the strong demand for retirement village living throughout Auckland. Mayor Goff cited The Foundation, with its unparalleled levels of convenience and amenity, as a highlight among such future developments.

Also speaking at the event was Peddle Thorpe director and architect, Terrence Barnes, who offered an outline of The Foundation’s design philosophy.

“The Foundation’s design draws inspiration from the precinct’s remarkable history and is respectful of the buildings which came before it in terms of scale and symmetry. The new apartment buildings will have double height protruding bay windows, horizontal stone reveals and upper balcony setbacks to complement historic buildings.”

The interior design will be akin to a luxury hotel, with a warm and welcoming environment combining subtle tones and textures to spacious communal areas.

Interior Design lead, Stewart Harris, revealed that The Foundation’s large pavilion entrance will be an inviting space with peach and cream undertones, while high-end finishes including oak parquet flooring, marble and art panelling and bronze pendant lights will also feature.

“The classic design flows through to the lift lobby areas where the use of oak flooring, bespoke inlaid carpets and wallcoverings continue the elegant appointment of The Foundation’s interiors,” he explained.

Set to open in 2023, The Foundation will also incorporate the neighbouring Pearson House, a Category A heritage building, constructed in 1926. The beautiful Neo-Georgian building, which overlooks Auckland Domain, will seamlessly integrate with The Foundation’s facilities and provide a signature historic building as part of the overall complex.

While currently in the early planning stages, ideal uses for Pearson House include a village café and other bespoke resident facilities, which will complement other amenities such as a wellness centre, gymnasium, swimming pool, bar, cinema, library, aged care hospital, and memory care centre.

Graham Wilkinson, Director of Generus Living Group couldn’t be happier with the team that has been assembled to bring The Foundation to life, as well as the relationship between Generus and the Royal New Zealand Foundation of the Blind.

“Through this union of commercial and charitable interests, we are achieving two great things. Residents will have access to a premium retirement village in an area we feel is currently under-served and, importantly, the Royal New Zealand Foundation of the Blind is assured long-term stability.”

The Foundation’s first apartment building on the corner of Parnell and Maunsell Roads is under construction now, with completion scheduled for mid-2023. To enquire, contact The Foundation Sales Manager, Bev Dyson, on 021 766 284 or bev@thefoundationvillage.co.nz