Pawa Architecture Managing Director Andrew McFadden last night shared the story behind the K130 million, 22-storey luxury apartment tower at the Paga Hill Paradise Precinct.
He said the project has changed Port Moresby’s skyline.
Speaking during the grand opening of the phase-one development and groundbreaking ceremony of the second-stage development at the precinct, Mr. McFadden also said it shows the nation’s growing strength in architecture.
The phase-two development will feature another two 22-story buildings for residential apartments and commercial office spaces.
Mr McFadden said the project started in January 2019, adding it began as a simple 2D building sketch.
The team later submitted it to the NCDC planning team, he said, adding the design changed many times before the project was completed.
“What started as a simple 2D diagram transformed a hundred times,” he said. “Three years ago, we stood on empty land with drawings. Today, we are standing inside the real building.”
McFadden is a dual PNG citizen. He has been a PNG-registered architect since 2015.
He said the project showed resilience-it went through design challenges and market changes. It also continued through COVID-19 delays.
He thanked the developer for a strong and bold vision.
He said the investment continued even during uncertain global times.
“Our team worked tirelessly,” he said. “Papua New Guinean graduates led the work, with support from our staff in Cairns.”
The development is part of a bigger precinct plan, he said.
He said the buildings feature a kundu drum façade. They also include curved glass balconies facing Fairfax Harbour, he said.
Phase Two will add more than 100 luxury apartments. It will also include a 20,000-square-metre office tower. It will follow the same design style and amenities.
McFadden said the project highlights PNG-led design excellence.
He noted that Pawa Architecture has earned international commendations. These include awards for the Kimbe Market Redevelopment and the Met Health Centre.
He said the firm will submit the Paga Hill project for international awards. He said he believes it will receive recognition.
He said the precinct name is “a fitting name for a fitting location.”
He confirmed the firm’s commitment to Phase Two.