Lifestyle Communities Clubhouse

Lifestyle Communities provide resort-style living for residents over 50. Their previous Clubhouse design was small, dark, closed-in and barely used. DKO sought to create Clubhouse that offers an open and welcoming experience where all communal facilities have direct access to landscaped external areas. With a focus on wellness and community, the new Clubhouse brings the residents together to socialise and engage in an environment that is calming, refined and beautiful.

The building's arc form is north facing and surrounds a central courtyard space flanked by wings that house an abundance of recreational amenity. At the apex of the building's arc form sits the concierge desk acting as the main axis point and welcome zone. By centralising the welcoming area, DKO have simplified the wayfinding experience, reduced corridors, and maximised access to views and natural light, thus improving both the overall flow of the building. The Clubhouse's wings include an activity centre with a pool and gym, a team workspace and library, a 27-seat cinema, restaurant, and a games room.

Designed with social and wellness principles in mind, the Clubhouse is a commercial architectural form with residential detailing and materiality. This adds a more personal touch, creating a relaxed and homely atmosphere. Having been open just three months, the social impact of the Clubhouse is already palpable. Residents are forming friendships and connections over a glass of wine in the lounge, or swimming laps in the pool - many of whom are 60+, single and new to the area. The community that is forming as a result of the architecture (and services of Lifestyle Communities) is wonderful to see.

Planned 'in the round' the 1,600m² Clubhouse takes cues from local aboriginal artwork depicting people gathered around a campsite and watering hole, abstracted into a building form that brings people together, both holding and sheltering the community it serves. Internal materials and finishes continue the Australian landscape theme that begins outside. Exposed brick links to the exterior form while plush soft furnishings create a counterpoint to strong surfaces and evoke a feeling of five-star hotel luxury. Exposed brick in patterns evoking the striations of geological formations combined with textured timbers speaks to the Australian landscape and is met with the contemporary feel of the sleek metal skillion roof. Experienced from almost every window sits a stunning, mature Scarlet Oak. The 25+ year old tree becomes the central anchor point for social interactions while the surrounding landscaping blends the building into the site. Beyond the courtyard, there are two recreational sports fields for lawn bowls and a tennis court.