Ingenia Lifestyle is redefining retirement living with the recent unveiling of two architecturally distinctive clubhouses at its communities in Fullerton Cove and Port Stephens in NSW.

The two over 55s communities offer resort-style living with architecturally designed spaces that foster social connection, active lifestyles and wellness among residents. The new clubhouses feature private dining, an outdoor lap pool and a shared kitchen among other amenities.

Ingenia_Lifestyle_Clubhouse_DKO_Architecture_Element (1).jpg — *Ingenia Lifestyle Element at Fullerton Cove*

Designed by DKO Architecture, the two resident clubhouses – Ingenia Lifestyle Element at Fullerton Cove and Natura at Port Stephens – blend thoughtful design, features and facilities that reflect their unique locations and respond to the lifestyle needs of a changing over 55s demographic.

“The Natura and Ingenia Lifestyle Element clubhouses signify a new era of over 55s living that is contemporary in design and purpose, and which we believe will inspire resident wellbeing,” says Ingenia’s Executive General Manager – Acquisitions and Development, Michael Rabey.

Ingenia_Lifestyle_Clubhouse_DKO_Architecture_Natura (2).jpg — *Natura at Port Stephens*

“These buildings are where residents can come together to cook a meal, play sport, and relax with friends and family. The social aspect of our clubhouses is really important for residents, so choosing designs that foster connections was a key consideration for us,” he adds.

Describing the clubhouse designs as progressive for an over 55s community, DKO Architecture’s Sam McCubbin explains, “These buildings reimagine what clubhouses in land lease communities can be. More than amenities, they are high-quality, place-specific responses designed to encourage belonging and support wellbeing. Every element – from layout to materiality – has been considered to create spaces that encourage daily connection, activity and ease.”

Ingenia_Lifestyle_Clubhouse_DKO_Architecture_Element (2).jpg — *Ingenia Lifestyle Element at Fullerton Cove*

McCubbin observes that the spaces reflect a move from transactional amenity to lifestyle-led design, with the architecture supporting autonomy, clarity and connection for residents.

The clubhouse at Natura, known as The Lakehouse, integrates seamlessly with its surrounding landscape, reflecting Ingenia’s commitment to sensitive, site-responsive design.

Ingenia_Lifestyle_Clubhouse_DKO_Architecture_Natura (4).jpg — *Natura at Port Stephens*

“The Lakehouse’s design focus was centred around a northern outlook towards an existing ornamental lake, and the building evolved as a series of pavilions in a garden, the idea being that each of those spaces should have a strong connection to the landscape and lake,” McCubbin says.

In contrast, the clubhouse at Ingenia Lifestyle Element offers a more urban, grounded aesthetic inspired by Newcastle’s industrial past as well as Scandinavian design principles with elements such as dark masonry, strong forms, and civic proportions integrated into the architecture.

Ingenia_Lifestyle_Clubhouse_DKO_Architecture_Element (3).jpg — *Ingenia Lifestyle Element at Fullerton Cove*

“Natura is immersed in its garden setting; Ingenia Lifestyle Element is bold and urban. Designing them together allowed us to explore how architecture can respond to both place and people in very different ways," McCubbin explains.

“Ingenia is paving the way for contemporary over 55s living, and it’s been a pleasure collaborating with them.”

Images: Supplied

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