A CONCRETE solution to Bermuda's mounting traffic problems, increasing population and shortage of open spaces was unveiled by former Premier Sir John Swan yesterday.

Invited guests were treated to a first glimpse of Atlantis, Sir John's concept of luxury urban development, during a roof-wetting ceremony held at the Parliament Street property.

"The concept of putting a substantial apartment building in the city is one that evolved through a realisation that there was an awful lot of development taking place in the outskirts of the city and land, as a resource, was becoming more and more scarce," Sir John said.

"Many of our residents are used to apartment-style accommodations in an urban setting, having lived in cities abroad. What we wanted to do, was produce a complex that embraced aspects of the country and the utilitarian aspect of the city, and Atlantis was created to achieve both of these.

"The accommodations are first-class, designed with all the amenities that one would expect in such a complex."

The project, which began two years ago, is not due for completion until November. The elegant, eight-storey structure houses 68 one- and two-bedroomed apartments, an in-house gymnasium, a covered, heated swimming pool, a recreational sun deck, landscaped gardens and an adjoining security-monitored car parking facility.

As far as luxury city dwelling goes, it's the first of its kind on the island and has already generated a great deal of interest, said Sir John, adding that a number of perspective buyers had put down deposits despite the fact that apartment prices had not yet been established.

"What we've tried to do is create a building that's very unique and very special. This will be the first major opportunity for people to own (property in Hamilton)," he added. "We have not set a price yet. We want people to see them; to see the amenities they offer; to experience the ambiance.

"The building is a quiet building. All the windows in the apartments are double-glazed so there's no noise factor; there's beautiful wooden floors and cabinets - we want them to experience all that.

"We haven't shown it because the workmen are still here, but people have already expressed great interest in taking an apartment.

"There are those who, without seeing it, have already said they want an apartment in it. With the housing shortage it fulfills a need; some people prefer urban living, they like being near restaurants and the theatre, being able to walk to work. It really is very, very unique for Bermuda and for them, it's just an ideal location."

Atlantis represents the first of a new generation of developments for Bermuda and in particular Hamilton, Sir John said.

"Bermuda's first and 'one-of-a-kind' urban dwelling complex combines classical Bermudian elegance with all the modern conveniences and amenities demanded by today's discerning property owner," he explained.

"The layout of each of the four apartment types, together with the tasteful and neutral finishes, provide the opportunity for each individual to fully express their own style, whether it be timeless and traditional, comfortable and relaxed, or urban chic.

"Each apartment has 8 ft. 8 in.-high ceilings lending themselves to a spacious environment. Flooring is done in either cherry, maple or beach wood and feature throughout each unit, along with solid wood kitchen cabinetry in a warm maple.

"Every unit comes with all the 'mod-cons' such as a washer and dryer, dishwasher, microwave, trash compactor and sink garbage disposal unit. Bathrooms are porcelain tiled with a fully tiled bath/shower and tiled dado elsewhere."

In addition, each apartment is lined with drywall, featuring individual airconditioning units and pre-wired for the most advanced security and telecommunications systems. A gracious lobby serves as the entrance, while the entire building is climate controlled with fresh air circulating throughout.