After acquiring the Aurora development site in 1996, John Sage evaluated whether to proceed with a basic residential project or invest in a design-led development that would redefine expectations for apartment living in the area.
A Thoughtful Approach to Home Design
Aurora is more than a building—it is a place where people live, gather, and create meaningful memories. A home plays a powerful role in daily life, shaping comfort, lifestyle, and personal expression.
The two sites forming Aurora were purchased on 22 October 1996, during a period when residential markets were only beginning to stabilise after earlier economic pressures. St Kilda Road was still largely viewed as a commercial zone, making the decision to develop residential apartments both bold and forward-thinking.
With the land secured, John Sage considered whether to follow a low-cost development model or pursue a higher standard of architecture and construction that would elevate the entire project.
At the time, many residential developments in Melbourne were focused on affordability rather than design quality. These buildings often shared identical layouts and uninspired exteriors—an approach John Sage felt did not suit such a prominent location.
This philosophy aligned perfectly with architectural designer Nigel Fitton, whom John Sage met during the early planning phase. Their shared vision was to create a landmark building that combined architectural excellence with genuine residential comfort.
Balconies at Aurora were designed to be generous in size and structurally integrated, offering usable outdoor living areas protected from strong winds and common safety concerns.
The building also features a centralised air-conditioning system, enhancing efficiency and visual cleanliness. Every design choice contributed to a cohesive, high-quality living environment.
A defining element of Aurora’s success lies in the construction method selected for the project.
Engineering for Design Freedom
Aurora demanded flexibility—larger living zones, expansive glazing, and varied apartment designs. The goal was to create a residential experience that felt organic and engaging.
To achieve this, an open-engineered commercial construction system was adopted. Supported by a central core and structural columns, this approach enabled greater architectural freedom and improved spatial outcomes.
One of Aurora’s subtle yet powerful design decisions is its reduced floor count. By opting for 19 levels instead of 20, higher ceiling heights were achieved, enhancing openness and liveability throughout the building.