Following the submission of the Development Application (DA) for the new Harbord Diggers in NSW, which took place on August 4 as a tribute to the 100th anniversary of the start of the First World War, the Club has introduced the team of design experts who will bring their vision to life.

The Architectus Consortia, which consists of Architectus, CHROFI and JMD Design, was announced as winner of the design competition for the $106 million redevelopment project in June. One of the key experts in the architectural team is Tai Ropiha of CHROFI, who is also a local Freshwater resident.

Ropiha is most recognised for his work on the TKTS booth in Times Square, New York, which won an unprecedented 18 international and national awards, including New York Magazine’s Building of the Decade and the Jorn Utzon Award for international architecture.

His experience spans across an array of disciplines, having worked on projects of all scales from residential houses to cities. Notable CHROFI projects include the $100 million Sydney residential tower, Stamford on Macquarie, Narrabeen House and Ballast Point.

TKTS Times Square by CHROFI. Photography: John Saeyong Ra, Emile Wamsteker, Ari Burling. Source: CHROFI

Joining forces with Ropiha are Michael Harrison and Mark Curzon from award-winning practice Architectus. Both Harrison and Curzon have a swag of international and national accolades, and put together have more than 45 years of architectural experience.

One of Architectus’ most well-known projects is 1 Blight Street, Sydney, which achieved a 6 Star Green Star rating for sustainability – the highest Green Star rating score in New South Wales.

1 Bligh Street. Image: Hans-Georg Esch

The proposed redevelopment of the Harbord Diggers club is the result of more than four years of planning and community consultation. Taking advantage of the site’s panoramic ocean views, the design will offer enhanced member services, improved club activities and programs, and a range of facilities including a fitness and aquatic centre, seniors living village and child care facility.

In addition to the design team, the Club has engaged a range of experts to assist them in delivering a community asset that the Northern Beaches of Sydney can enjoy.