Nautilus | Smart Design Studio

Nautilus | Smart Design Studio | Photographer: romello pereira

2025 National Architecture Awards Program

Nautilus | Smart Design Studio

Traditional Land Owners

Wodi Wodi people

Year
2025
Chapter

NSW

Category
Residential Architecture – Multiple Housing
Builder
Parkview
Photographer
Romello Pereira
Media summary

Nautilus is the premium residential development within The Waterfront, Shell Cove, the new harbourside masterplanned community on the NSW South Coast by Frasers Property Australia and Shellharbour City Council. Designed to maximise the amenity and the prominent views across Shellharbour Marina and out to the Pacific Ocean, the 116 apartments are split between two buildings: one six storeys and the other four.

The architecture is informed by the waterfront location, with the curved form taking its cue from the shapes and details found on the coast. These references are developed into an architectural language appropriate for a development of this scale and its location.

Access to winter sun, protection from summer sun and natural cross ventilation were primary considerations. As a result, the final architectural form is curvilinear with mostly dual aspect apartments arranged around six cores. The resultant semi-circular courtyard is a dramatic space containing a pool and garden.

2025
NSW Architecture Awards Accolades
Commendation for Residential Architecture – Multiple Housing
NSW Jury Citation

This project is located on a signature waterfront site in The Waterfront master planned development in Shell Cove. The building form is a distinctive landmark, which reflects the arc of the site boundaries with a curved architectural form. The striking silhouette is further informed by its waterfront location, taking its cue from the graceful shapes and details found on the coast: boat hulls, driftwood and shells, to become a recognisable landmark. 

The project is commended for its confident and uplifting modernist architectural form, that is derived from thoughtful design principles and uses elegant architectural form devices to avoid a brutalist outcome. Nautilus is beautifully detailed and well-built which is a significant achievement in the context of multi residential development in regional NSW areas. 

The waterfront location provides stunning views, natural light, and fresh sea air, promoting relaxation and well-being. Thoughtful apartment layouts maximize space, comfort, privacy and energy efficiency. Residents enjoy convenient access to the marina boardwalk and Town Centre, offering water leisure activities, everyday conveniences, social liveliness, and sense of connection to the wider community. Communal spaces like the private rooftop with gym and yoga platform, and the resort-style pool with cabanas all enhance recreational opportunities. Nautilus’ elegant design integrates nature, luxury, and functionality, creating a seamless balance between modern living and the beauty of a coastal lifestyle

Project Practice Team

William Smart, Design Architect
Nicole Leuning, Project Architect
Stephen Sharkey, Project Architect
Marcus Rigon, Designer
Stefanie Taylor, Interior Designer
Amir Shahrad, Designer

Project Consultant and Construction Team

VDM, Civil and Structural Engineer
Climax, Mechanical Engineer
MPES, Electrical Consultant
Effective Fire, Fire Services
Greenarrow, Hydraulic Consultant
Affinty Fires, Fire Engineer
BCA Logic, BCA Consultant
Accessible Building Solutions, Accessibility Consultant
McKenzie Group Consulting, Principal Certifying Authority
Accoustic Logic, Acoustic Consultant
Efficient Living, BASIX Consultant
Site Image, Landscape Consultant
MRA Consulting, Waste Consultant
Geosurv, Surveyor

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