The term “ethos” means the distinguishing character, sentiment, moral nature or guiding beliefs of a person, group or institution.
Forgive me for sounding like I’m writing the introduction to a college essay, but it’s imperative to identify the word’s meaning to truly understand the concept behind a new residential development of the same name.
“The ethos of a culture, community or organisation is the characteristic spirit manifested in its attitudes or aspirations,” says Colliers senior marketing manager Laura Marsh.
“Now the aspirations of a dedicated team of designers and builders are expressed in concrete form in Ethos, the second stage of the ground-breaking Cirrus development that was completed last year.”
Standing proud on Belconnen’s foreshore, Ethos is a 13-storey tower by Per Se Developments and Mathieson Architects.
It is comprised of mostly two and three-bedroom apartments, as well as several two-storey, three and four-bedroom penthouses.
It’s ethos? To deliver an elevated level of design and construction, creating timeless architecture that will be enjoyed for many generations.
“This development is relatively boutique compared to Cirrus, with a total 88 residences, however the quality and the finishes are really similar,” Marsh says.
“What makes this particular development particularly special is that every single apartment is north-facing with water views, each possessing a balcony or patio that overlooks Lake Ginninderra, the Brindabella ranges and beyond.
“You can’t get this outlook in many locations across Canberra.”
Inside, open and airy living spaces are enveloped in this beautiful northern light.
Designer kitchens feature stone benchtops and beautifully detailed joinery, while Italian-made Smeg appliances combine brilliant aesthetics with high technology.
Comfort is a given, with reverse-cycle air-conditioning to the living areas and bedrooms, while double-glazed windows help to keep the home at a consistent temperature.
The penthouses offer luxury living, with many additional features including upgraded appliances, stunning tiled floors in the living areas, and an internal staircase and lift.
The elevated design techniques continue well beyond the look and feel of the homes. Innovative building methods will create optimal thermal mass and robust internal walls which reduce energy consumption and improve acoustics.
“The result is a comfortable and peaceful living environment,” Marsh says. “Along with Cirrus, the striking tower represents a new chapter in construction for Belconnen and for Canberra.”
Ethos’ location on Emu Bank boasts extensive nearby parklands, a thriving arts centre and a cosmopolitan mix of eateries.
The Westfield Belconnen shopping centre, with a cinema, supermarkets and retail, is less than a kilometre away. In the other direction, you’ll find the Belconnen Fresh Food Markets, conjuring images of weekends nabbing the freshest produce before venturing home on foot.
Construction has already begun, and expected completion is mid-2025.