A blend of decadent architectural styles in a low rise development in the Central Business District of Jakarta
PHOTOS BY: PAI and WATG Doc
“Take care of the luxuries and the necessities will take care of themselves,” are the wise words of American author and poet Dorothy Parker. Every era has its glamour and every decade indulged in its own decadence, for most people today wifi might be more important than high tea... BUT does this show a lack of culture or a lack of style? However judgmental or high society you may be - luxury living provides comfort and convenience - after those are taken care of the necessities are most definitely already taken care of - no matter which era or city you are living in: Luxury, like fashion, seems to evolve each decade.
In Menteng and Kota Tua, Jakartans will soon see something in significance to their own historic architecture – something that is unique to the city and will be in high demand. Le Parc Residence, a development consisting of four residential buildings: The Mansion, The Townhomes and The Terraces (phase 1), and The Skylofts (phase 2) with its neighboring facilities. As the first low-rise development concept, the possibilities for a low density, tranquil, and tropical landscape will offer a refreshing, but still conservative proposition.
There is a very subtle negotiation between a central CBD location and a discrete and secure environment for a family residential area. The very fact that Le Parc is connected to the development’s other facilities – retail, F&B, Office space, schools, hotel, sport & leisure etc – means that it will be a dynamic place to live in, with many activities available for residents to choose from. With the concept of low rise residential apartments, each unit has its very own private lift and balconies, for each garden units available, will have their own patio’s and direct access to the central garden and half sized Olympic swimming pool, and penthouses will have their own private swimming pool on the roof top As with other prime residential developments in Jakarta, Singapore and elsewhere – there is a very desirable need for interaction between residents and families in these areas. The need for privacy and security is highly valued, each unit will be self-contained – windows will be double-glazed and access will be controlled via the buildings concierge team and by means of in-house smart card (HID access) technology.
The variety of buildings, unit sizes, layouts and interior design choices represents characteristics from a broad spectrum of architectural historic references. The gardens are an attraction that expresses a lush green escape right in the heart of the metropolis. And of course the impressive conservatory-like atrium space at the heart of The Mansion is sure to become an iconic design feature. The whole reference of the design aims to blends in historically with the Batavian architecture of the old Jakarta, offering an exceptional luxury lifestyle experience.
The approach for sustainability for Le Parc development was entirely driven by practicality and efficiency, rather than achieving points on a rating system. Making use of technology, where appropriate, to deliver comfortable spaces and to minimize energy use – both of which will benefit the residents in the long-term and improve the quality of a day-to-day life. Residents will soon appreciate design features that will reduce their energy charges, and even though this may be achieved through incorporating traditional techniques like considering solar path shading and modern techniques like power saving AC systems, solar panels, sun shade ledges, louvered windows, cross ventilation etc – will all support the characterful architecture.
The very outset of the design aims to create a powerful indoor/outdoor experience. Once residents pass the entry gate the atmosphere is designed to bring shade and softness to the environment. A cobbled court with formal palms will give a feeling of prestige to the motor court and covered drop-off area. From the entrance doors’ imposing axis, leading the eye through the central atrium space and out into the resident’s gardens beyond. Symmetrical formal gardens – as developed in 17th century Europe – is employed to give a sense of harmony and balance - highlighting the main features such as the indoor fountain and the swimming pool. The character of the internal garden ‘sanctuary’ will be very lush, with plenty of shady spaces to sit and relax, and the gentle play of the water fountains will further distance the inhabitants from the surrounding urban condition.
The design will employ careful selected and durable materials for the building’s exteriors to reduce the long-term maintenance requirements. The other main concept was to not use too much glazing for the general architecture, and to stay away from complicated screen or decorative motifs, as it may look cold. Doors and windows will be high quality aluminum systems that will require minimal future maintenance
Most importantly the development will capture the imagination – not being fixed on a particular ‘house aesthetic’ - and an appreciation towards a sense of history that makes a location unique is very unlike most contemporary designs. This development is not at all averse to creating environment containing elements from several styles and era’s – choosing the best building blocks for creating an effective and desirable urban environment. Having a high awareness in the importance of Interior and Landscape design – both were considered as integral from the outset – and will go a long way to deliver a completely integrated luxury experience from the point of arrival to the most private of family spaces.
The greatest luxury Le Parc will offer is simply the ‘sense of space’ – although located in the center of the CBD area, it still offers extremely generous unit floor spaces and high ceilings and big windows. Added to that the central gardens, balconies and rooftop terraces is sure to have an unequaled sense of spaciousness - with a ground floor conservatory courtyard garden as big as 900 sqm and 36 m in height.
If wanting to enjoy a luxury lifestyle or simply for making a future investment - this decade of luxury living in Jakarta has surely reached a new level of decadence.