Following a devastating fire in January 2024, the historic hotel site at Shelley Point stands poised for remarkable transformation. This proposal outlines the transformation of the ruined property into a contemporary residential development of 52 dwelling units, designed to fit naturally within the character and setting of the prestigious Shelley Point estate.
The project comprises three types of distinct residence buildings namely Residence A, B and C, each positioned to work with the existing slope of the site while maintaining architectural harmony with Shelley Point’s established character.
All buildings will follow the estate’s guidelines, featuring white plastered walls and dark tiled roofs pitched at 25 degrees, ensuring the entire development integrates seamlessly with the estate’s architectural guidelines.
A central focus and defining principle of the development is the preservation and enhancement of the site’s existing greenery. The oasis-like character of the former hotel will be reinstated by retaining mature trees and existing vegetation where possible. Carefully considered new landscaping will complement this, to enhance the natural atmosphere and create green, layered spaces between the buildings.
Located where the former Cattle Baron restaurant and hotel reception once stood, Residence A forms the anchor of the development. It includes 18 three-bedroom units spread across three, 3-storey buildings. These buildings sit at the original hotel floor level and represents the fully resolved architectural concept that will guide the look and feel for Residence B and C.
Residence B consists of 16 units, arranged in two, 2-storey buildings (twelve 2-bedroom and four 1-bedroom apartments). These buildings will be constructed on the existing basement structure, which has been confirmed structurally sound. The ridge of these roofs will be 1 meter lower than the Residence A buildings which begins the stepped transition down the site’s slope.
Situated adjacent to the existing tennis courts, Residence C comprises 18 units of mixed configuration (six units each of 3-bedroom, 2-bedroom, and 1-bedroom) units housed in two, 3-storey buildings.
These buildings cascade further along the natural topography, with roof heights positioned 2m to 2.4m lower than those of Residence A creating an elegant architectural composition that follows the land’s natural contours.
A central focus and defining principle of the development is the preservation and enhancement of the site’s existing greenery. The oasis-like character of the former hotel will be reinstated by retaining mature trees and existing vegetation where possible. Carefully considered new landscaping will complement this, to enhance the natural atmosphere and create green, layered spaces between the buildings.
The development includes 138 parking bays in total:
84 secure basement bays using the existing intact structure, and
54 covered bays beneath the retained solar-panelled parking structure.
This provides an average of 2.65 parking spaces per unit, while also making use of sustainable energy through the existing solar array.
Where fire left devastation, this new residential development proposal offers renewal. The result will be a vibrant residential community that honours both the site’s heritage and Shelley Point’s architectural identity, transforming tragedy into an opportunity for carefully considered, coastal living within the West Coast’s most desirable estate environment.