Natural and green but with all the mod cons
Waking to gentle birdsong beats an obnoxious alarm any day. Filling your lungs with clean, fresh air as the sun rises over the treetops while doing tai chi, yoga or meditation is the stuff of relaxing holidays. Likewise, getting among the flora and fauna with a bushwalk or bike ride.
Residents of The Falls Estate will enjoy these experiences of nature on a daily basis. Located in the Oxford Falls Valley, this premium retirement development planned for Sydney’s Northern Beaches will be set in 3.4 hectares of natural bushland.
It is well known that time in nature is good for health and well-being, and with the coast only a short drive away, this secluded and peaceful location provides the best of a well-balanced lifestyle.
However, it’s more than just the environment that makes The Falls Estate an eco-friendly oasis. Designed by experienced seniors living architects Marchese Partners, the 41 two- and three-bedroom luxury development plans to utilise sandstone that has been excavated from the site.
That’s one of many sustainable elements, explains Senior Development Manager Dan Maurici. “3 large rainwater tanks will irrigate the landscape and top up dams and water features,” he says. “A large on-site storm water detention pond and rain garden will take storm water from the catchment areas in Frenchs Forest and remove silts and other pollutants currently going into the nearby creek and then Narrabeen Lagoon.”
The development includes shared amenities, such as community kitchen, resident lounge and bar, gymnasium and an indoor swimming pool . Solar power will run common area heating, ventilation and air conditioning, pool heaters and external lighting. “Any surplus will then be diverted to dwellings,” says Maurici.
With construction commencing soon, Maurici says that while such environmental considerations cost more in the development phase they are included because of the benefits they provide. “ The reduced carbon footprint and eco-outcomes are worth it, and will result in lower water and power bills for residents” he says.
Existing inhabitants have also been considered. “A wildlife corridor along the northern boundary will provide refuge for native animals and allow access to Red Hill Reserve and the National Park,” he says.
“For residents to enjoy maximum pleasure from their new surrounds we’re also providing things like walking tracks, private gardens, extensive outdoor areas, a dam and duck ponds. They’ll also be able to sit in a gazebo overlooking a on-site waterfall,” he says, adding that an outdoor firepit will extend socialising options into winter.
A low-density development, with most apartments having a northerly aspect to capture light and stunning bush views, means life at The Falls Estate will make you feel like you’re a million miles away. “However, you’re still close to everything you need,” says Maurici. Shopping, dining, medical and other services are available at nearby Belrose, Warringah Mall and Forestville, plus there’s a new, state-of-the-art hospital at Frenchs Forest.
“The Falls Estate is a rare opportunity to buy into a unique and exclusive community where you can retire close to the city, among nature and yet feel like you’re actually in the bush,” he says.
The Sun Herald – 29 August 2021