BLOG21.04.25The Gladstone: A New Era in Build-to-Rent Living

Aloha Pools is proud to present: The Gladstone - a new benchmark in Build-to-Rent developments, blending cutting-edge aquatic design with luxury, sustainability, and community living. Located in Fishermans Bend, Australia’s largest urban renewal precinct, this landmark project comprises 700 high-end rental apartments across three architecturally striking towers. At the heart of the development is a five-star hotel-style indoor lap pool—a centrepiece of wellness, efficiency, and architectural integration.

Designed within tight spatial constraints, the pool complements the overall building aesthetics while delivering a superior aquatic experience. Acoustic isolation mounts ensure that vibrations from the pool don’t transfer into the living spaces above, preserving residential comfort. To further reduce its environmental impact, the pool is heated using an advanced water-to-water heat pump system, which cleverly repurposes waste heat from the building’s cooling towers.

The development also features two additional aquatic spaces—an outdoor lagoon and a spa—crafted not only for leisure but as vibrant social hubs. These water elements encourage interaction among residents and serve as venues for community events, reinforcing the project’s emphasis on lifestyle and connection.

One of the most technically demanding aspects of the design was the need for seismic stability while maintaining acoustic isolation. Each pool sits atop rubber-bearing acoustic mounts and is suspended above the main building slab. Instead of relying on surrounding structures for stability, large concrete isolation blocks anchor the pools, delivering the required four-way lateral restraint necessary for seismic events. This solution ensures both stability and acoustic performance without compromising the building's structure.

The innovative heating system adds another layer of sustainability to the project. Unlike conventional systems, it captures heat rejected from the cooling towers and redistributes it to the pool via high-efficiency heat pumps. These pumps are specifically engineered to handle the high-pressure water supply, offering both precise control and exceptional energy savings. This type of integrated, reclaimed heat system is rare in the Build-to-Rent sector, placing The Gladstone at the forefront of sustainable innovation.

Beyond the aquatic spaces, The Gladstone prioritises urban sustainability. Its location within Fishermans Bend ensures easy access to public transport, retail, and community services. By reducing reliance on private vehicles and fostering walkability, the development aligns with long-term environmental goals.

Architecturally, the building incorporates high-performance insulation, water-saving technologies, and energy-efficient lighting, further supporting its sustainability credentials. These features combine to minimise energy consumption and reduce the overall carbon footprint.

The Gladstone is more than just a place to live; it is a blueprint for the future of urban residential design. Through integrated engineering, forward-thinking sustainability measures, and a focus on resident wellbeing, it redefines what Build-to-Rent living can be.