This naturally airy and light apartment features views out onto to a beautifully designed courtyard. As an energy-efficient design, the apartment is part of a well-designed, multi-level complex offering secure, modern living.

This modern block of apartments in the NSW regional centre of Wagga Wagga combines the best elements of apartment living with a fabulous internal courtyard that would more than satisfy any lingering desire for outdoor living and leisure areas. The building design is by Rob Pickett, who worked in collaboration with architect Pat Twohill. The small site and the proximity of adjoining buildings presented some big challenges for the two: "There are limitations on multi-level developments in this locality, so it was a unique opportunity to expand our creative skills," says Rob.

Rob and Pat had to ensure that their multi-level eco apartment design would be in harmony with its surroundings. Incorporating solar access and ensuring a high degree of privacy for the residents were two priorities. "We wanted to provide a design that truly enhances apartment living for each resident," says Rob.

Richard and Lorraine, a couple living in one of the units, had been looking for an energy-efficient apartment with plenty of natural light, a homely feel and excellent security. "The security of the building was of paramount importance, so a lock-up garage was essential, rather than the usual parking space," says Richard. The finished complex deftly incorporates all these considerations, but its standout feature is perhaps the internal courtyard. It has been exquisitely landscaped, and each apartment has a fabulous elevated view of it from the living room and balcony. The couple have found that the design of the block as a whole and of their particular apartment has met all of their living requirements. "We love the solar hot water system, the double-glazed energy-efficient windows and the mezzanine loft area," says Richard.

Their eco apartment also features good-sized living and sleeping areas and a large modern kitchen with beautiful granite benchtops. The overall feel is light and airy in the apartment and, most importantly, it feels like a home.

What were you trying to achieve with your design of this dwelling?

Rob – A modern, sophisticated, energy-efficient and light apartment design providing a new level of quality living; a design that truly enhances apartment living for each resident.

Which part of the design do you think works particularly well?

Rob – The street perspective is appealing, but the internal courtyard is a standout. All of the apartments have abundant natural light, elevated views of the courtyard from their living rooms and sheltered balconies. The garden landscaping also enhances the vastness of the courtyard area.

Why did you choose to take on this project?

Rob – The eco apartment project promised a fresh challenge. There are limitations on multi-level development in this locality, so it was a unique opportunity for our firm to expand our creative skills to new areas.

What was your vision for this apartment?

Richard – We wanted a home in the form of an apartment so we could have security without the responsibility of a garden. We wanted the apartment to be large, with lots of natural light and as energy efficient as possible. The security of the building was of paramount importance, so a lock-up garage was essential, rather than the usual parking space.

Did you have much input into the design?

Richard – Not beyond our general requirements for security, light and energy efficiency. We did select the interior fittings for the kitchen and bathroom.

What’s your favourite aspect of your new apartment?

Richard – We love the solar hot water system, the double-glazed energy-efficient windows and the mezzanine loft area, as well as the modern kitchen and main bedroom with large ensuite and walk-in robes.