The suburb of Penrith in Sydney’s west is shaping up as one of the city’s newest growth hotspots, with population levels expected to jump from 195,000 to 260,000 by 2031, and the area’s economic catchment tipped to expand to one million people over the same period.
In line with this growth, a number of visionary property developments are set to transform the Penrith skyline, the latest of which is Penway Place, located on the corner of Union Place and Mulgoa Road, from leading Australian developer, TOGA.
Known for award-winning projects such as the Jones Bay Wharf rejuvenation and Bondi Boheme, TOGA has an exceptional pedigree in property development, and the company expects Penway Place to play a transformational role in the future of Penrith.
TOGA has now revealed the vision for the development, the first stage of which will include 81 apartments, following the completion of a design competition which was won by market-leading built environment specialists, SJB Architects, and their design partner Architect Prineas.
The winning design envisions a four-building development that provides a new urban residential and mixed-use precinct and acts as a marker for the western gateway of Penrith’s CBD.
The first release of the development is set to feature a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, with a number enjoying views to the Nepean River and neighbouring Blue Mountains.
Penway Place is also planned to include a vibrant public plaza and retail precinct, providing a lively space for Penrith locals and visitors to enjoy.
Meanwhile, residents will have access to a private landscaped podium with a BBQ and seating areas, a community garden, gym, multi-purpose / kids play room and outdoor dog park.
According to TOGA CEO, Fabrizio Perilli, SJB’s design stood out in what was a high-quality field of design competition entrants.
“We received some truly fantastic submissions from highly-respected design and architecture firms, but at the end of the day, SJB and Architect Prineas’ concept for Penway Place most closely matched our own vision for this part of Penrith and the community,” said Mr Perilli.
“The development will draw on feedback from local residents by directly connecting with its environment and the local landscape, finding inspiration in natural elements such as layered barks, gum leaves and earthy textures.
“The project’s key theme is ‘Live Your Way’, and what SJB have put forward will allow the growing Penrith community at Penway Place to enjoy life to the fullest in what is being termed Sydney’s ‘New West’.”
Indeed, the idea of the ‘New West’ is a key driver in Penrith City Council’s Economic Development Strategy, which has outlined a vision targeting an increase of between 42,000 and 55,000 local jobs by 2031 – across the health, education, tourism, arts and culture, advanced manufacturing and advanced logistics sectors – further boosting the suburb’s future prospects.
“Looking ahead at what the next decade or so will mean for Penrith, it’s exciting times,” added Mr Perilli.
“The railway station and interchange have been recently upgraded, with sustainable developments and smart infrastructure already underway to support the growing population.
“This population will undoubtedly need access to quality, affordable housing, from first homebuyers to downsizing locals, and this is what we are aiming to provide for the community.”
The opportunity to contribute to the growth of Penrith is also a key reason SJB collaborated with Architect Prineas to submit their designs for Penway Place, according to SJB Director, Nick Hatzi.
“We see this development playing a major part in Penrith’s increasing recognition as a key destination in an emerging market, through delivery of a high-quality public realm, as well as first-class civic and retail amenities,” said Mr Hatzi.
“We’re very fortunate to be working with such an experienced and reputable developer as TOGA, and we look forward to helping them bring this exciting project to the people of western Sydney.”