Each new high-rise luxury development in Sydney has helped push architectural boundaries. One such standout project is Emblem Apartments in Waterloo. Completed in 2019, this multi-residential is more than just a collection of apartments. It’s a masterclass in balancing civic engagement with privacy, and beauty with functionality—a balance made possible through material choices such as Austral Plywoods’ Connectaply plywood panelling system.
Elevating a community by design
The project brief was clear: design a striking, contextually relevant residential building within the Lachlan Precinct of Waterloo.
The location was highly visible, surrounded by Dyuralya Park and Wulaba Park. The key design challenge was creating a structure that could accommodate high-density living while elevating adjacent public spaces with its presence. Beyond simply creating a residential building, the design brief called for a structure that would foster a sense of place—one that residents would feel connected to while also enhancing the public spaces around it.
Yet the project had to be limited to a palette of materials with self-finishing properties. This meant prioritising materials, textures, and spatial arrangements that would bridge the gap between private living and the communal character of the Lachlan Precinct.
The architectural team, led by Chenchow Little, used the site’s history as their inspiration. The area was once known as the Waterloo Swamp. Thus, this led them to create a nuanced architectural design that would blend the past with the present.
A wetland-inspired architectural vision
Chenchow Little decided to create a building that evoked the wetlands.
In their design, the façade would feature angled, exposed columns on all sides that mimicked stilt structures on water. Each floor would have wrap-around balconies, drawing the eye up to a rooftop pergola structure. The main decorative materials would be concrete, glass, green tiles and wood. To bring living warmth, a wood finish would be applied to every floor’s semi-exposed balcony ceilings and soffits.
The interiors would also feature the same warm-coloured wood. They envisioned applying the same finish to lift wells, floors, accent walls, and other decorative elements. Inside the apartments, the wood’s warm tones would create a welcoming contrast against the cool concrete elements. If they succeeded in choosing wood with a fine grain and smooth finish, they would succeed in reinforcing a refined yet naturally elegant interior aesthetic.
With such a distinctive form, they hoped Emblem Apartments would become a well-known civic landmark. Executed properly, it would form a striking backdrop to Dyuralya Square.
Connectaply Plywood Panelling System: The Architectural Plywood Solution
To achieve their vision, Chenchow Little needed a premium plywood panelling system. This pre-finished plywood had to deliver durability and aesthetic refinement, without compromising practicality or their budget. Connectaply in Spotted Gum emerged as their ideal solution.
Known for its exceptional strength, stability, and visual appeal, Connectaply’s precision-engineered construction made it their top choice for key interior and exterior applications within the apartments. The pre-made tongue-and-groove plywood panelling system allowed for efficient installation, reducing construction time.
Beyond aesthetics and durability, Connectaply also aligns with modern sustainability goals. Sourced from responsibly managed Australian plantation forests, it provides an eco-conscious solution for developers looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
Additionally, Connectaply’s superior resistance to warping and environmental wear could ensure that Emblem Apartments would maintain their stunning appearance for many years.
A stunning result with lasting impact
The Chenchow Little team completed the Waterloo Emblem Apartments in 2019. As they intended, the natural timber aesthetic of Connectaply softened the strong concrete forms of its façade and added warmth to its interiors. Its use demonstrated that locally sourced Austral Auracaria plywood has its place in ultra-modern architectural designs.
Since then, Emblem Apartments has earned the popular local nickname “the Rock,” due to its memorable presence. It has also been critically acclaimed for its seamless execution, earning the Residential Architecture Award for Multiple Housing at the 2020 Australian Institute of Architects NSW Chapter Awards.
Its bold presence and distinct design make it a recognisable landmark, not just for residents but for the wider community. As urban densification continues in Sydney, it serves as a model for integrating high-density living with thoughtful public engagement.
Bring warm life to your vision with FA Mitchell
We are one of Australia’s oldest wholesale plywood suppliers and a trusted distributor to Sydney architects, interior designers, and developers. We source all our products exclusively from Australian plantation forests and suppliers audited by the Engineered Wood Products Association of Australasia (EWPAA).
Austral Plywoods’ Connectaply is among our premium exterior plywood lines. It offers you an unparalleled combination of installation ease, performance, and style. Whether building a landmark high-rise or creating bespoke interiors on a tight schedule, Connectaply is the smartest choice for projects that demand the highest standards.
Consult us today to explore how you can use Connectaply and other premium plywood products. We’ll help you bring your iconic architectural vision to life.
