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Vela

About the project

Type of Build: Medium-Density Residential

Architect: Novak+Middleton

Complexity Level: High Level

Perched in the heart of Petone, the newly completed Vela Apartments are a striking homage to 1960s retro charm, seamlessly blended with the needs of modern urban life.

Location: Petone

Year: 2024

The Vela Project

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Redefining Urban Retro

Project Overview

Crafted by Novak+Middleton, and brought to life by Black Sheep Construction, this project is more than just a residential development—it's a visual and architectural statement that speaks to the soul of mid-century design.

At first glance, Vela captures the eye with its bold honeycomb aluminium screens, a design element that anchors the building in nostalgia while pushing it forward into contemporary elegance. These custom-made panels, each weighing a substantial 400 kilograms, are meticulously powder-coated and craned into place with precision, a testament to the craftsmanship and attention to detail that Black Sheep Construction is known for. The screens add depth and texture to the facade, their geometric pattern a subtle nod to the architectural experimentation of the 60s, while providing a modern, stylish aesthetic for today’s urban dwellers.

The interiors of Vela continue the story, where every corner reveals Black Sheep’s deft hand in balancing form and function. Communal spaces are wrapped in rich timber panelling, complemented by solid plaster finishes that add a tactile quality to the experience of the building. This material palette conjures warmth, inviting residents into spaces that feel as though they belong to a different era while offering all the conveniences of the present day. The decision to move away from typical plasterboard walls for these communal areas elevates the entire project, creating a distinct sense of place and history.

Inside each apartment, careful design choices allow the mid-century influence to flourish. Outdoor spaces, which can be tricky in multi-residential developments, are thoughtfully integrated. Each apartment boasts its own private outdoor area—an essential feature in a building where space is at a premium. These areas act as urban retreats, extending the living space and connecting residents with the outdoors, a hallmark of great design. Despite the logistical challenges of tight spatial constraints, Black Sheep Construction’s orchestration of trades ensured these spaces were delivered without compromise to the overall vision.

The architectural dialogue between Novak & Middleton’s design and Black Sheep’s construction is perhaps best demonstrated in the shift from the original structural plan. While initially envisioning 25-tonne precast panels, the site’s spatial limitations led to an elegant pivot to blockwork and bespoke feature panels cast onsite. This adaptation showcases Black Sheep’s flexibility and focus on maintaining the design’s integrity, ensuring that Vela stands as a reflection of both architectural ambition and construction expertise.

Beyond its materiality, Vela embraces its urban context. The building sits within walking distance of Petone’s vibrant Jackson Street, offering residents not only beautifully designed living spaces but also the convenience of local cafes, shops, and the stunning waterfront. The dual-key apartments are fully equipped, making them versatile for investors and owner-occupiers alike. Each unit offers a turn-key solution to modern living, enhanced by the communal garden—a thoughtful space that fosters community interaction, rare in such a central location.

The Vela Apartments encapsulate a harmonious blend of old and new, a project where mid-century design ethos meets contemporary craftsmanship. Black Sheep Construction’s dedication to preserving the architect’s vision while navigating the complexities of urban construction has resulted in a project that is both timeless and distinctly modern. For Petone’s architectural landscape, Vela is not just an apartment building—it’s an ode to thoughtful design, standing proudly at the intersection of past and future.

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