In the heart of Maroochydore emerges SOL — a thoughtfully designed residential development that brings a fresh perspective to urban coastal living — placing shared experiences at its core. With crafted communal spaces that foster connection, this landmark project represents a new vision for collective coastal living.
Designed by Plus Architecture in collaboration with Walker Corporation, SOL features two 19-storey towers housing 248 residences, complemented by commercial spaces and activated ground-floor retail. SOL is a significant project within Maroochydore’s designated Priority Development Area, marking a notable step in the growing city’s evolution. Beyond its scale, what distinguishes SOL is a design process that has considered not just how people live, but how they feel.
Associate and interior design lead at Plus Architecture, Kate Ockwell says, “With SOL, we set out to explore how apartment living can be a meaningful and grounded experience that strengthens the connection between people, place and nature. Through a deeply layered design process, the communal areas of this project highlight how architecture can actively support wellbeing, connection and creativity in a burgeoning urban centre.”
“Representing an evolution in apartment design philosophy, we have elevated the communal spaces so that they become the heart of the development — creating a framework where community naturally forms through thoughtfully designed shared environments.”
Walker Group Executive of Development Peter Saba enjoined, “Our vision for SOL was to create the highest quality residences with shared spaces to bring people together, all connected to landscaped communal areas, shops, restaurants and transport.”
“From multigenerational families buying to live close to each other, to first home buyers and downsizers, SOL is drawing a broad mix of residents, laying the foundations for a strong community.”
Plus Architecture’s design for SOL explores three core elements that define this landmark project:
Creating places to connect – Communal spaces at SOL have been meticulously designed to facilitate connection. The expansive rooftop terrace allows for views by all residents regardless of apartment position, while Level 4 features a 20-metre resort style pool, spa and cold plunge, and saunas and steam rooms that encourage daily interaction and shared routines. Community-focused amenities include gardens that present opportunities for shared purpose, ritual and collective experiences; an inviting sunset lawn with a mixed-use layout including fire pit zones, picnic tables and small amphitheatres that foster spontaneous gatherings; and a residents’ lounge equipped for social and collaborative uses.
The co-working space creates community through productivity, designed in recognition of evolving work patterns. The space offers hot desks, booths and lounge areas to suit different work modes while creating opportunities for professional engagement and relationship building.
Kate Ockwell noted “We’ve designed multiple facilities that support different modes of connection. The Zen Lounge offers flexible seating with modular lounges that allow for both solo relaxation and casual interaction, while the private dining room provides customisable settings for both formal dinners and relaxed brunches. We’re seeing a shift in how people want to live and work together, and SOL is a direct response to this collective desire for meaningful connection.”
Embedding nature: biophilic design for communal wellbeing – From the outset, Plus Architecture focused on integrating the natural environment throughout shared living spaces, creating collective experiences that connect residents to nature and each other.
Cascading luscious green planting flows down the front of the development, not only creating a living facade that softens the architecture but establishing a shared visual identity that residents experience together. The rooftop terrace features communal vegetated spaces that reduce subtropical urban heat while offering all residents sweeping views to enjoy collectively — democratising access to ocean, river and hinterland perspectives.
The towers’ strategic positioning maximises natural sunlight in communal areas, while naturally ventilated breezeway corridors incorporate vegetation at both ends, creating social microclimates where neighbours organically encounter one another throughout their daily routines.
Kate Ockwell commented “The materials and finishes at SOL reflect the natural environment of the Sunshine Coast, creating shared spaces that feel authentically connected to place. These communal areas facilitate a collective relationship with the area’s natural character and way of life, bringing residents together through a shared sense of belonging.”
Creating communal places that inspire – SOL’s design seeks to inspire creativity and connection through shared artistic and storytelling elements for a shared experience by residents.
Walker Corporation has featured artwork of local artists throughout SOL’s shared areas, as part of the Maroochydoore City Centre project, creating moments of communal discovery that contribute to the development’s unique sense of shared place and identity.
First impressions of collective spaces are prioritised, with entrance lobbies — the first communal experience residents and visitors have — featuring statement lighting, high ceilings, and premium finishes like marble and bronze. The lobby features a ribbed tile, mirroring the waves of the Sunshine Coast coming ashore, emphasising how design elements throughout SOL’s common areas highlight the shared story of its coastal context.
Kate Ockwell added, “Luxury isn’t just what you see but how it makes you feel, as both an individual and alongside others. We’ve used rich textures like boucle upholstery, honed stone, and warm timber in the common areas, to create communal spaces that resonate emotionally with residents and their guests. Communal amenity is where connection is built over time, and in high-density living, these shared spaces are what shape collective identity, comfort and community.”
Throughout SOL, the thoughtful integration of nature, connection opportunities, and inspirational elements converges in communal spaces designed to foster authentic community. The development represents a thoughtful approach to coastal urbanism — one that places communal connection at the heart of every design decision, supported by climate-responsive features and elements that build shared character and identity.
As the Sunshine Coast continues to grow, SOL is paving the way for the next chapter of Maroochydore City Centre’s evolution as a place where people truly connect.
More information about the project