Oaks Canopy by Amalgamated Property Group

In the growing suburb of Phillip in the ACT, Oaks Canopy stands as a significant milestone in the Build to Rent (BtR) landscape. Developed by Amalgamated Property Group, this was their inaugural BtR project, signalling a bold step forward in providing modern, long-term rental housing in Canberra. With this project, Amalgamated Property Group sought to establish a blueprint for future developments, and BOWERBIRD was chosen to help to bring that vision to life through expertly curated interior furniture schemes that catered to the needs of today’s renters.

From the outset, the ambition behind Oaks Canopy was clear. Nestled in the heart of Phillip, an area known for its mix of urban conveniences and suburban charm, the development had to offer more than just a place to live. It needed to reflect a sense of community, comfort, and contemporary living – qualities that BOWERBIRD wove into every aspect of the furniture layouts and design details. The challenge was to craft interiors that would appeal to a diverse tenant base while also supporting the overall functionality and durability required in a Build to Rent setting.

The design approach began with understanding the ethos of Oaks Canopy. Much like the surrounding environment, the interiors needed to provide a harmonious balance between nature and modernity. Drawing from the building’s architectural forms and the lush greenery that surrounds the site, BOWERBIRD created a design palette that combined earthy tones with sleek, modern finishes. This aesthetic echoed throughout the furnished apartments and communal spaces, fostering a connection between the residents and their surroundings.

At the core of the project was the integration of Amalgamated Property Group’s brand identity into the design. As their first BtR development, it was essential that the aesthetic not only reflected the values of the development but also the aspirations of the company as they ventured into this new space. BOWERBIRD worked closely with APG to ensure that each design decision – from the selection of furniture to the layout of the communal areas – was aligned with the brand’s vision for Oaks Canopy as a premier living destination.

The common areas played a vital role in shaping the community experience within Oaks Canopy. BOWERBIRD designed and furnished spaces that encourage social interaction and relaxation, including welcoming reception areas, a sports lounge, a library, a business centre, and inviting outdoor spaces. Each common area was carefully crafted to offer a blend of comfort and functionality, encouraging tenants to engage with their surroundings and with each other. These spaces were not only visually appealing but also built to withstand the high usage typical in a Build to Rent environment, ensuring longevity and practicality.

In the apartments, the focus was on creating adaptable, functional layouts that could meet the varied needs of tenants and their diverse demographics. Each apartment was furnished with a curated mix of custom-designed and manufactured pieces and high-quality furnishings sourced from BOWERBIRD’s trusted suppliers. The result was a cohesive, modern living space that balanced comfort, style, and durability. Every piece of furniture and every design element was selected with the tenant experience in mind, ensuring that the apartments would feel like home from the moment residents walked through the door.

Executing a project of this scale and complexity required careful coordination and an unwavering attention to detail. BOWERBIRD managed the entire process, from the initial design concepts through to manufacturing and the final installation, ensuring a seamless delivery that met the client’s expectations and timelines. The success of Oaks Canopy is a testament to BOWERBIRD’s ability to not only create beautiful, functional interiors but also to manage the logistical complexities that come with large-scale developments.

Said Sophie Bearse, Marketing & Communications Manager at APG, “The feedback has been phenomenal, everyone has loved the atmosphere and the warmth that the pieces have delivered overall, it’s something to be very proud of. The compliments received on the interior design and furniture selections have been nothing but top notch.”

For Amalgamated Property Group, Oaks Canopy represents a bold new direction in their portfolio. As their first foray into Build to Rent, the project sets a high standard for what is possible in this growing sector. The collaboration with BOWERBIRD has helped define what Oaks Canopy stands for: a commitment to quality, community, and innovative design. The success of the project has laid the groundwork for future developments, with BOWERBIRD’s designs contributing to a living experience that resonates with modern renters.