First look inside RetireAustralia's new retirement village

Frank Ehrenberg, Principal and Regional Director at architects Marchese Partners & Life3A, has given his LinkedIn followers a look at something special.

"Having just walked through the first open building at Arcadia Retirement Living – Banksia Residences, I’m reminded what a privilege this seven-year journey from concept to completion has been," Frank said.

"Together with our client RetireAustralia and contractor Hutchinson Builders, this has been a genuine team effort — shaped by a shared ambition to create retirement living that feels dignified, warm and deeply residential."

RetireAustralia's Arcadia Retirement Living is part of Economic Development Queensland's master-planned Parkside Yeronga. All 45 brand‑new Stage 1 apartments are selling rapidly and the first residents are moving in.

The Weekly SOURCE reported practical completion of Arcadia's Stage 1 last month and Frank admitted it was not easy.

"Like many projects delivered through the post-COVID period, Arcadia has navigated its share of trials and tribulations, including cost escalation, supply pressures and a shifting construction market. Maintaining the design intent through that process has required collaboration, resilience, a practical commitment and sacrifices from the entire project team," he said.

"Our focus has remained on age-appropriateness without institutionalisation — where care is supported but not announced, and safety, accessibility and comfort are quietly embedded into everyday living. 

"With its bar, lounge, library and integrated Care Hub, Banksia enables residents to age in place while remaining connected to their community, partner, friends, amenities and daily routines." 

RetireAustralia Chief Executive Officer Brett Robinson said last month the retirement village with 217 independent living apartments and 10-suite Care Hub is the "most ambitious project we’ve undertaken to date.”

“It’s allowed us to take everything we’ve learned over many years – about design, care, services and community – and apply it in a way that responds directly to how retirement living is changing,” he said.