Tag: apartment

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Design Interiors Addict

Laid back luxury Melbourne apartments for renters only

Home Southbank, a build-to-rent (BTR) apartment community in Melbourne, has recently opened its doors. The vision of award-winning architectural firm Bates Smart in collaboration with Home’s in-house design team, local makers and creators, including stylist Ruth Welsby, contributed too.

With over 1500 square metres of communal spaces throughout the building, the aesthetic goal is ‘laid back Australian luxury’. It features 403 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across 59 levels in the heart of City Road precinct.

The architecture

The exterior facade celebrates its industrial heritage within a glass tower, offering sweeping views of the city no matter the viewpoint.

“The tower’s elegant proportions allowed us to focus our efforts on designing a building that respects the character of the area and surrounding properties, but also celebrates the uniqueness of the design. The slenderness of the building creates calm, ordered architecture that deliberately contrasts with some of Southbank’s busier architecture,” said Bates Smart director, Julian Anderson.

“At the same time, its podium integrates materials, textures and character found in surrounding neighbourhood structures, including the Kings Way overpass and local brick warehouses, to make it part of the neighbourhood’s street-level fabric.”

Drawing from the industrial heritage and character of the precinct, the use of reclaimed brick, heavy steel and warehouse glazing, fit in with the streetscape.

Inside

“Inside, we placed special emphasis on designing amenities that are accessible to all residents. They’re located at the top of the building, so that everybody can share the best views and premier space. This floor becomes a magnet for all residents and helps to create a strong community, one of the fundamental aspirations of all BTR projects,” Julian added.

Throughout each space sits a variety of Australian furniture, individually curated by Ruth and Home’s in-house design team. Warm tones, textures and handcrafted homewares sit beside signature furniture pieces by coveted Australian brands Jardan, Grazia and Co., En Gold, Tait, Anaca, Zuster and more. Each room has been curated to feel inviting and cosy; spaces where residents feel welcome to take off their shoes and relax.

The importance of design at home

Head of Home, Christian Grahame, said they’d had taken a considered approach to Australian design in a way that was as unique and inviting as the spaces themselves, with the aim to extend the connection and experience of residents to beyond each apartment’s four walls.

“After spending several years curating every detail of Home’s premium living experience – collaborating with a globally minded team of experts – it’s exciting to finally be welcoming Melburnians to their new Home,” Christian said. “How buildings are designed affect how we feel and behave while enhancing how we live.”

“By marrying the expertise of Bates Smart with our internal team along with Ruth Welsby  – we’ve created a place which we believe will connect our residents to their community and we’re so proud to partner with homegrown businesses and local industry—emerging and established—who understand the way our residents want to live.”

Ruth adds: “It was such an exciting opportunity to create stylish, inviting spaces that embrace Australian designers and makers.”

More info about Home

Photos by Henry Trumble

Treehouse living: the future of post-Covid apartment blocks?

Apartments in the aptly named Treehouse at Midtown MacPark will soon be launched to market, offering a mixture of studios,…
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Architecture Design Interiors Addict

Treehouse living: the future of post-Covid apartment blocks?

Apartments in the aptly named Treehouse at Midtown MacPark will soon be launched to market, offering a mixture of studios, one bedroom-apartments, as well as two and three-bedroom apartments to suit families. The building, located in the sustainable new community in Macquarie Park, may just be the future of the apartment lifestyle in a post-Covid world.

Designed by Sydney architecture firm Studio Johnston (formerly Fox Johnston), Treehouse’s design exemplifies community connections and interactions, with an abundance of communal spaces located throughout the building. The activated sky garden rooftop also provides space for residents to relax with family and friends, complete with its own indoor kitchen, barbecue facilities, and outdoor cinema area.

The most unique feature is its custom-designed ‘Treehouse Rooms’. These communal spaces span three levels, each with their own landscaped gardens and spaces overlooking the central Village Green. Each Treehouse Room provides alternative modern day ‘backyards’ in which to work, socialise, and relax. There are spaces for children to play, incorporating waterplay, rock climbing and grassy pockets; areas with dedicated seating and tables to work in while enjoying the fresh outdoor air; and as well as spaces to gather with friends and neighbours.

Cameron Jackson of Frasers Property Australia says Treehouse offers buyers flexible living options and connection to nature while enjoying all the connectivity and amenities
Midtown MacPark has to offer. “Residents of Treehouse will quite literally be living among the trees thanks to the exclusively designed Treehouse Rooms,” he says.

Commenting on the unique design features of Treehouse, Studio Johnston director Conrad Johnston says residents will enjoy a lifestyle experience not available anywhere else.

“Treehouse is a very different style of apartment building that delivers an exciting, new approach to apartment living. The outdoor Treehouse Rooms in particular are a really strong innovation and I think they will generate a strong sense of community. We see Treehouse as the best of both worlds – the best of apartment living and also the best of living in a home.”

Frasers Property is targeting a 6 Star Green Star Communities rating for Midtown MacPark and the vision is for the community to be carbon neutral in operation.

More about Midtown MacPark and Treehouse

Neale Whitaker’s latest tips on the art of apartment living

With Australian property prices still sky-high, many of us have abandoned the quarter-acre dream in favour of apartment living. And…
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Architecture Design Interviews

Classical archways star in new Melbourne downsizer development

Affluent Melbourne downsizers are certainly spoilt for choice these days, a situation that has been underscored by the arrival of the Huntingtower Road development. A boutique development of 10 residences located in the leafy suburb of Armadale, the gorgeous apartments are framed by a series of sculptural archways that pay homage to classical Italian loggias.

To the passer by, Huntingtower Road looks like a singular house

“Huntingtower Road has classical proportions with a contemporary edge. This is best expressed in the classical, rhythmic flow of the series of arches, which are contemporised by the purposeful deep carve to their form. The way the light plays on this form is very pleasing,” says Mat Wright of Jolson architects.

Lounge room: The arches look equally as beautiful from inside

Covered in a textural render on the outside and a smooth finish on the inside, the curves bring a softness to the overall design. “For this project, the soft curves and splays, and the way the light falls on them, informed a lot of the interior details,” says Jolson’s Mat Wright. 

Kitchen
Kitchen

Said interiors are equally stunning; neutral, soft and textured they have a timeless feel. Each apartment boasts elegant three-metre ceilings, large living areas, stone fireplaces and an upscale materials palette including natural oak floorboards and marble. There’s double basins, deep-set freestanding baths and custom-designed joinery in the bathrooms while the kitchens boast three-metre-long island benches finished in luxurious Cȏte D’Azur marble.

Kitchen
Look at that gorgeous marble!

Other sumptuous details include custom perforated wall sconces that house the exterior lights, curved steel-framed glass windows under the archways and Poliform walk-in-robes custom to each individual residence.

Lounge
Lounge
Ensuite
Bathroom

With the gardens so integral to the design, the developer Orchard Piper engaged landscape architect Myles Baldwin to design the green spaces. Each plant species has been specifically selected to provide texture and contrast; vines and creeping figs are paired with 20-year-old Dogwood trees for a classic feel. 

“It’s a planting scheme that was originally developed from my background working with the Royal Botanic Gardens. Essentially, it’s a contemporary spin on a planting style inspired by the ‘gardenesque’ aesthetic – the grand mid-1800s planting style you would find throughout Europe,” says Myles Baldwin.

The low-maintenance gardens have an understated, classic feel

And while the gardens pack a visual punch, they are purposely low-maintenance in order to complement the projected occupants’ desire for a lock-and-leave lifestyle. “The gardens can’t be overly manicured or tended to, we wanted to rely on the natural form and habit of the plants to provide the aesthetic; nothing forced. Downsizers who might’ve experienced having a large garden don’t want it to be a chore. This was very much considered in the design.”

Photography: Sharyn Cairns | Styling: Tamsin Johnson

For more

Former Melbourne property stylist now styles homes for living

After eight years of styling homes to sell, Melbourne interior stylist Kylie Tyrrell decided she would much rather style spaces to live. “If I had to dress one more bed…
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Architecture Design Designers

Australia’s first Tom Dixon designed apartments!

Rondure House
Interior

There aren’t many modern designers more revered than Britain’s Tom Dixon. The British designer, perhaps best known for his iconic round copper pendant lights and table lamps, has a distinct aesthetic that’s certainly resonated with people across the globe. And while he is involved in many architectural projects globally, never before has he created something in the Australian residential space. That is, until now.

Rondure House
Melbourne’s Tom Dixon designed luxury apartment complex, Rondure House

Based in the Melbourne suburb of Kew, Rondure House is a high-end residential apartment development that will sit in the Studley Park precinct of Melbourne’s Kew. The project will come to life through a partnership with Dixon, as well as the acclaimed Australian firms Cera Stribley and Eckersley Gardens. Melbourne based property developer Above Zero is driving the project.

“With our shared appreciation of brutalist architecture, high quality materials and rough textures, we are delighted to partner on this unusually high quality and well thought out project and believe we can add a series of innovative interventions in luminosity, texture and comfort to a world class project,” says Tom of the project that will house 14 apartments including a whole-floor penthouse.

Rondure House
Interior

Brutalist design aspects feature on the building’s exterior where off-form concrete hyperbolic concrete columns serve as both decorative and structural functions – the effect being almost organic. And there’s hand-made bricks recall the 1960’s where materials were minimal and long-lasting.

“To celebrate this milestone, we will be delivering bespoke features across the residences, communal spaces and lobby including yet to be released furniture items. Our intention is to deliver an exceptional experience for future residents. From the building entrance to the proposed customisable furniture in each apartment – each detail is considered,” says Tom.

Rondure House
Balcony: Large open and expansive gardens can be seen from each apartment

Often forgotten spaces (from a design sense), the lobby and communal spaces have been particularly well thought out. Residents will be greeted with a grand lobby and art gallery on the ground level as well as the Tom Dixon designed and furnished Opal Bar & Lounge where residents can enjoy a morning coffee or evening drink with guests and neighbours.

The Opal Bar & Lounge
The Opal Bar & Lounge

Another unique aspect of the project is the creation of ‘vaults’ for each residence – these are privately titled multi-purpose rooms that are separate from each apartment and can be customised to suit individual preference. Each vault will be approximately 10 square metres in size and will act as an extension of each resident’s home – a place to escape or entertain. The design team imagines they will take the form of a private office, cigar room, wine or whiskey cellar, art or collector’s studio, private theatre or meditation room.

Rondure House will launch to market in early 2020 with private VIP display suite appointments for pre-registered buyers starting prior to Christmas this year.

For more on Rondure House | Melbourne downsizers trade mansions for luxe apartments

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Architecture Design Interviews RENO ADDICT

Architect’s home amazing example of small space living

Entry & lounge room
Entry & lounge room

With just 33 square metres to work with, architect Jack Chen has maximised every last centimetre of this 1970’s Melbourne apartment through a very clever renovation. And while small, Jack’s apartment really packs it in – it features a four-metre-long kitchen, wine store, sunlit window seat, green house and home studio area too!

Entry & lounge room
Entry & lounge room

“I was renting in the unit below for over a year and this project came about to fix all the awkwardness I was experiencing while renting which included a tiny kitchen, a lack of sufficient daylight and lack of working space. This renovation addressed all of this and hopefully a bit more, and I now have a feeling of comfort and a place I can unwind in at the end of the day,” says Jack who lives and runs his architectural business Tsai Design from the apartment too.

The four-metre-long kitchen
Jack’s apartment features a four-metre-long kitchen

Working within the constraints of the original floor plan, the modest budget was poured into creating floor-to-ceiling, multifunctional cabinetry and wall systems created by a cabinetmaker that specialises in high-end hotels.

The apartment features a slide-out dining table
The apartment features a slide-out dining table

Three prototyped versions of the fold-down dining table were created to determine the best solution
Three prototyped versions of the fold-down dining table were created to determine the best solution

The largest multi-tasking zone is the lounge room has been cleverly designed to transform easily from tv room to home office. Clever joinery hides a tv, flip-out desk, computers and filing area.

Lounge room mode
Lounge room mode

Office mode
Office mode

And with its statement green wall and privacy film wall between it and the kitchen, the bathroom is a highlight of the home. “As the apartment has no outdoor space, I wanted to create an environment that gives the outdoor vibe, hence the full height green wall, various planting, and timber texture porcelain tile in the shower that creates an outdoor shower experience,” says Jack.

The view down the kitchen to the bathroom with the privacy screen off
The view from the kitchen to the bathroom with the privacy screen off

“The green wall is made of preserved moss so there’s no maintenance required. It comes on cork backing in a 30-centimetre x 30-centimetre tile format,” says Jack.

A simple switch of a button turns the the privacy screen on
A simple press of a button turns the the privacy screen on

The privacy screen between the kitchen and bathroom is the only change that Jack made to the existing walls – the opening was created to let in the northern light from the bathroom to kitchen. “It is a standard glass fixed window, with a privacy film on top of it. When activated the film goes from transparent to frosted to achieve privacy when required, and allows for a clear view of the green wall and daylight the rest of the time. Activation is by simple press of the remote,” says Jack.

Bedroom
Bedroom

And while Jack is proud of the overall transformation, he does concede that small living is perhaps not for everyone. “It is very easy to clutter up a small space, so you have to choose each furniture item carefully. But it’s important to have your personal items around too so the hardest thing is to strike the perfect balance.”

Multipurpose storage at the entry houses coats, shoes a wine rack and even an umbrella stand
Smart multipurpose storage at the entry houses a helmet, shoes, wine rack and even an umbrella stand

Jack’s apartment will be open to view as part of the upcoming Open House Melbourne 2019 Weekend that is taking place on Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 July.

Photography: Tess Kelly

The full Open House Melbourne 2019 program | Small space laundry ideas

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west elm’s James Bond inspired Aussie ski apartment

west elm mount hotham apartment

With James Bond as its muse, west elm has partnered with Hotham Holidays to create a spectacularly stylish apartment on the slopes at Victoria’s Mt Hotham alpine resort, just in time for the winter snow season. Featuring lashings of statement Yves Klein blue paired with terracotta tones, metallic flourishes and mid-century furniture, it’s one seriously stylish ski pad.

west elm mount hotham apartment
The open plan apartment is filled with west elm furniture, lighting and homewares

“In this world-first partnership – a ski resort collaborating with a lifestyle retailer – we were excited by the idea of a blank canvas apartment surrounded by the vistas of the Hotham ski slopes and snow-capped mountains. Our aim was to create a luxe and dramatic space that perfectly bookends a day on the slopes. The west elm design crew formed an apartment that’s not only cosy and comfortable but has an air of sophistication too,” says Angus Whyte, vice president of country merchandising for west elm Australia.

west elm mount hotham apartment
Kitchen and dining

The implementation process took place over just two days and the apartment now boasts a bold paint colour courtesy of Haymes Paint too. “Working with Haymes we were really able to instantly transform the space. Opting for a strong wall colour – we saw it as framing the vistas, making Hotham the real star of the show, while west elm’s collection set the scene,” says west elm’s lead visual manager Rhys Duggan.

west elm mount hotham apartment
I love that statement blue!

Starting with a blank canvas, Rhys worked to Hotham Holidays’ brief and used new-season and core collection west elm pieces in the stylish abode. “We decided to really go for it in terms of aesthetics. You’re at the snow – you want something impactful and oozing style and personality,” says Rhys of the apartment that opens for business on June 8th.

west elm mount hotham apartment
Main bedroom

west elm mount hotham apartment

The apartment also features a bespoke vintage style ski illustration by Melbourne-based illustrator Evie Barrow. Hanging above the bar cart the monochrome work is an homage to James Bond and ski life.

west elm mount hotham apartment
Above the bar cart is a custom vintage ski inspired illustration by Evie Barrow

“The season is set to be a big one, and the new-look apartment is the perfect getaway for those seeking style, and luxurious comfort,” says Belinda Trembath, general manager of Mount Hotham Skiing Company and Hotham Holidays.

west elm mount hotham apartment
Second bedroom

To celebrate the opening, Hotham Holidays is giving away a winter ski escape at the apartment plus a $1,000 west elm gift card for one lucky person – simply enter below!

Photography: Martina Gemmola

Enter the competition | Winter 2019 Australian kitchen trends

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Before & after: New layout opens up dark 70s apartment

AFTER kitchen
AFTER kitchen

Owned by a young teacher and first home buyer, this original 1970’s apartment is located in Melbourne’s Elsternwick and was overhauled recently by interior designer Jasmine McClelland who altered the floor plan and finishes to create a lovely light-filled abode.

BEFORE kitchen
BEFORE kitchen

AFTER kitchen
AFTER kitchen

“The client saw potential in purchasing this 1970’s apartment and wanted to open the spaces to meet her needs. She loves to cook and entertain so the kitchen had to work practically, with lots of bench space and storage whilst feeling contemporary, light and fresh. Ultimately, she wanted a look that was minimal with clean lines,” says Jasmine.

The first part of the renovation involved removing the dividing wall that separated the kitchen and living space thus opening up the entire space for entertaining. Jasmine also opened up the laundry and integrated it into the kitchen to make the apartment feel larger.

BEFORE laundry
BEFORE laundry

AFTER laundry
AFTER laundry

“The integration of the laundry allowed for all the storage and practical spaces the client needed. Demonstrating how much you could do with small apartments, we weren’t afraid to address the difficulties with the existing floor plan and completely change it around,” says Jasmine.

AFTER kitchen
AFTER kitchen

AFTER pantry
AFTER pantry

The new kitchen is clean, bright and largely neutral space save for two deep green Muuto pendant lights hanging above the bench. “They are absolutely beautiful and enhance the space and create the contemporary feel the client wanted,” says Jasmine who explains that she doesn’t usually specify all-white kitchens but did so due to the amount of cabinetry and the need for the space to feel larger.

“It was the best way to maximise the amount of the light coming in and integrate it seamlessly with the adjoining spaces. A neutral colour balanced out the other spaces, so that nothing would overly dominate and the client also really loved white!” says Jasmine who paired the white cabinetry with Oak floors and an open shelf in Laminex ‘sublime teak’ for a touch of warm timber.

AFTER kitchen
AFTER kitchen

When it came to the bathroom, Jasmine merged two tiny bathrooms to create one larger one which meant there was room for a much-desired free-standing bath. “The client’s favourite thing to do in her down time is relax in a bath after a big day teaching and although she doubted it was possible for her small apartment, she really hoped to be able to have one. I’m so glad we could do it and the bathroom is luxurious and has ample storage too,” says Jasmine

BEFORE bathroom
BEFORE bathroom

AFTER bathroom
AFTER bathroom

As for her favourite part, Jasmine is particularly proud of the laundry re-design. “I love the challenge of designing spaces to be completely practical but beautiful as well. Reminding my clients that they don’t need to get locked in to the existing layouts of their homes, there is a lot of liberation in creating multi-purpose areas that don’t fit the traditional model, particularly in apartment living.”

AFTER bathroom
AFTER bathroom

Photography: Johnathan Tabensky

For more | New Melbourne apartments feature ‘flexible’ room option

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Step inside Sheridan head designer’s Sydney apartment

Sheridan designer apartment

Home for the last 29 years, Sheridan’s head designer Mark Travers has just listed his one-bedroom garden apartment in Sydney’s Woollahra which is great news for interiors voyeurs like us! Set in a Victorian manor, Mark is hard pressed to explain his favourite thing about the light-filled, open plan home that’s set amid lush gardens. “It’s the feeling of space. Of volume and light. It’s the calmness and serenity. The property certainly had a wow factor from the moment we first walked in.”

Sheridan designer apartment

As head of design for Sheridan, the interiors reveal eclectic taste, myriad artworks and a life well travelled. “Colour is my hobby, so we have used colour in nearly every room to add emotion and a real visual dimension. The high ceilings and large wall spaces allowed us to showcase and rearrange our eclectic collection of art and sculpture. We constantly move pieces around to give each piece a different focus and change the feeling inside the apartment,” says Mark who lives in the home with wife Irene, who worked at Sotheby’s for many years as a jewellery specialist.

Lounge
Lounge

“Over the years we have made changes to the interior but were mindful not to spoil the first impressions we had,” says Mark who explains that the apartment offers the couple what can only be described as an enviable lifestyle. “We walk to morning coffee at Parterre Gardens and walk to movies at the mall. There’s plenty of great shopping and a variety of food in Queen Street,” says Mark.

Dining
Dining

“We have great neighbours from all walks of life, from students to professionals, and we have grown to be very close friends with all the people in our building. We have coffee mornings, we exchange magazines and papers, we discuss films we have seen and give recommendations. And we also babysit as it’s a real community vibe here.”

Bedroom
Bedroom

Sheridan designer apartment

But perhaps the most highly-prized aspect of the home is the glorious surrounding gardens. “We have had some amazing parties here with anything up to 60 people standing. It is a wonderful space when the doors are open, and the weather is mild. The courtyard is great for summer dinner parties.”

Garden
The glorious garden

The one-bedroom apartment goes to auction on 11 April 2019 with a price guide of circa $1.4 million.

For more | A 1950’s Sydney apartment transformed into Scandi retreat

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Design

New Melbourne apartments feature ‘flexible’ room option

With property prices still relatively sky-high, apartment living is becoming the new normal in many capital cities. And it’s a trend that cuts through demographics. Whether you’re an older downsizer or a first home buyer, it’s a style of living that is on the increase as people are increasingly drawn to the affordability, convenience and amenities an apartment provides. And what has been interesting to note is the way in which apartment design has become more sophisticated in response and Steller’s Laila development in Melbourne’s Carnegie, with its ‘flexible space’ option, is a great example of this.

Nursery
The flexible space can be set up as a nursery

Designed to give home owners maximum flexibility, all of Laila’s one-bedroom apartments include a flexible space that allows purchasers to choose between incorporating a butler’s pantry, study or nursery into their floor plan. The clever design is an affordable way for purchasers to add value to their homes while adapting to their own individual requirements.

“Design expectations for off-the-plan developments continue to rise as buyers become savvier about their home and how it needs to function. This flexible space component opens up a world of possibilities for our Laila first home buyers, downsizers and expecting families,” says Steller’s project sales and marketing director James Cirelli.

The butler's pantry option
The room can also be set up as a butler’s pantry

“Where traditionally one-bedrooms have been favoured by young single buyers and downsizers, Steller’s flexible space component now means that young couples and expectant families can enter the housing market with an affordable product that caters to current demands but also offers room to grow,” says James.

Office option
The office option

“Each multipurpose space can be fitted out with a desk forming an office space, act as a second kitchen to offer more space for entertaining, or it may suit as a nursery for young buyers that want to start a family,” says James.

For more | A former fashion editor’s chic apartment

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Real home: Former fashion editor’s chic Manly apartment

Lounge room
Lounge room

While this circa 1924 apartment is located on Sydney’s Manly Beach, I bet you wouldn’t be surprised to hear that it’s home to a former New York City fashion editor. Clean lines, layers of texture, a monochrome palette and metallic accents combine to create a warm yet sophisticated home that shuns the coastal clichés.

Lounge room
Lounge room

Lounge room
Created by the artist Nat Russell, Jillian found this artwork in Byron Bay

“The home suffered from an outdated layout and a less than desirable aspect, resulting in limited natural light. The biggest priority functionally was to maximise light at every turn and to reallocate the rooms to take advantage of that light where possible. Aesthetically, I wanted to create a chic and sophisticated home that spoke to who we are and our experiences together before it reflected the home’s beachside location,” says the home’s owner, interior designer Jillian Dinkel who lives there with her husband Kevin and their Italian greyhound puppy, Miller.

Bedroom
Bedroom

“I went straight to New York City the day after I graduated college to accept a job in the fashion department of SELF Magazine. From there I moved on to work with GQ and Glamour in New York, travelling the world on cover and fashion photo shoots working with some of the world’s biggest celebrities and in the most enviable locations. It offered me the opportunity to see a very different side of the world than I’d come from, and I think it’s greatly influenced my aesthetic and points of inspiration,” says Jillian who is American but moved to Sydney six years ago for her husband’s work.

Bookshelf

“After arriving I served as Vogue Australia’s photography and casting director before going back to school to pursue my love of interior design full time. After working for various stylists and across the build side of design, I opened my own practice focused on residential projects across Sydney,” says Jillian.

Kitchen
Kitchen

Kitchen

As for the renovation of her own home recently, one of her favourite parts is the dining room which is a former sunroom. “This room was small, but it gets the best morning light, so it was the perfect place for our breakfast nook and casual dining space. I created mood and ambience by wallpapering the entirety of the room in Fornasetti’s Nuvolette wallpaper. A Coco Republic marble and steel-based table paired with vintage dining chairs completes the look,” says Jillian.

Dining room
Dining room

Dining room details
The gorgeous Fornasetti wallpaper is the hero of the space

The lounge room is another standout space and it’s made even more so by the gorgeous coffee table that was a seriously thrifty find. “It was an op shop score for $175! It made other elements like the custom mirrors, window treatments and oversized couch possible,” says Jillian who used Kelly Wearstler’s fabulous Graffito fabric to create custom cushions for the couch and bedroom too.

Bedroom
Bedroom

The overhaul continued outside where Jillian turned a fairly unusable space into a stylish and comfortable one. “The small balcony was previously neglected and filled with oversized furniture that was difficult to navigate around. As it is a heritage apartment, we couldn’t touch the surfaces without a lot of council approval, so instead I covered the terracotta tiles with pebbles and granite pavers and filled the space with plants to create a serene escape for drinks with friends and a place for our puppy to run around.”

Balcony
Balcony

Jillian with her puppy Miller
Jillian with her puppy Miller

Photography: Pablo Veiga

For more | Greg Natale’s New York-inspired furniture collection

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Real home: Hunting for George’s divine Art Deco flat

I’m sure many of you will remember the iconic Aussie drama The Secret Life Of Us and the fabulous Art Deco apartment building location where much of the filming took place. Well Hunting For George’s Lucy Glade-Wright loved it so much that it factored into her first real estate purchase – a beautiful two bedroom Art Deco apartment in the Melbourne suburb of Armadale that she renovated recently.

Lucy's gorgeous Art Deco apartment building
Lucy’s gorgeous Art Deco apartment building was recently restored externally

“My favourite thing about this apartment and also the main reason why I bought it, is its epic rooftop. As you can imagine, being a 20-something obsessed with The Secret Life Of Us, I thought that I had clearly found real estate jackpot! I used to hang out on the rooftop a lot, it is so peaceful up there and you get incredible views of the city. Whilst I thought I’d be having a ton of parties up there it was more often than not just me and a good book in the sun,” says Lucy of the heritage listed 1940 Art Deco building.

Lounge room
Lounge room leading to the courtyard

And with such great original features, Lucy didn’t need to do much to freshen up the home. “I kept styling to a minimum to allow the unique layout of the apartment to speak for itself but also on a practical level, to fully maximise the smaller spaces. To reflect the exterior Palm Springs aesthetic I decided to carry out a modern coastal theme internally,” says Lucy.

Lucy Glade-Wright
Lucy Glade-Wright

“This apartment had great bones and there was little I needed to do to improve it structurally. I focused more recently on cosmetic changes, namely new window furnishings to accentuate the gorgeous curves of the building and then in order to enhance the light I painted all the internal walls and replaced the light fixtures,” says Lucy who was active in the transformation of the stunning exterior of the building too.

Bedroom
Bedroom

“We were very keen to restore the building to its former glory, we’ve since painted and updated its colour scheme to be more in line with its original light colour. We also just completed the landscaping with a Palm Springs inspired garden at the entrance to complement the Art Deco nature of the building,” says Lucy.

Kitchen
Kitchen

“It is a very much loved building in Armadale and known by many of the locals, it was so wonderful hearing such positive feedback about the cosmetic restoration of the building from those that lived in the area. People seem to feel an attachment to this building, even those who don’t live here. It’s quite special in that way,” says Lucy.

The apartment is filled with gorgeous Hunting For George wares
The apartment is filled with gorgeous Hunting For George wares

A delve into the history of the building reveals a really interesting story that perhaps explains where the Australian affection for the Art Deco apartment block first began. “The properties that surround my building were once part of the extensive grounds of a mansion that was built in 1880 for C.J. Ham. Following his death in 1909 the estate was progressively subdivided into suburban allotments. As the demand for housing became greater, the development of flats increased, but there was fear that these residential flats were going to ruin the character of the suburb. So to counter the criticism, leading architects were employed to design these apartment blocks so as not to upset the local residents or ruin the charm of the area,” says Lucy.

The view from the rooftop
The view from the building’s rooftop

Regrettably, after 10 years in the home, Lucy is selling. “I have so much love for this apartment block and I really hope that it finds itself a new owner who loves and respects it as much as I do. So if there’s any Art Deco fans out there that would love a piece of architectural history, this is it!”

Photography: Nikole Ramsay | Styling: Lucy Glade-Wright

The property’s real estate listing | A beautiful Art Deco hotel in Sydney

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Step inside St Kilda’s $30 million dollar penthouse!

Pool
Look at that pool!

Luxury developer GURNER has just revealed plans for its impending St Moritz development in Melbourne and if the first-look is anything to go by, it’s set to be rather phenomenal. With an average price point of roughly $3.5 million dollars, the St Kilda project is being designed by architect Fender Katsalidis (together with Koichi Takada Architects) alongside celebrated interior designer David Hicks with Jack Merlo on landscape duties.

Penthouse
The ridiculously high-end penthouse will have uninterrupted views of the bay

“We believe the luxury end of the market has been waiting for something like this to come along, with significant depth and demand for the right project offering the right level of luxury,” says GURNER founder and director Tim Gurner of the project that will occupy 14-16 The Esplanade, St Kilda. The first of the three buildings, Pacific House, is set to launch to the public in the middle of this year with 45 residences up for grabs at an average price point of $4 million dollars.

Penthouse bathroom and bedroom
The penthouse’s expansive bathroom and bedroom

Reflecting the bespoke trend, the purchase price will include a full customisation package giving purchasers the ability to work directly with David Hicks and Tim Gurner to create their dream homes. Think bowling alleys, infra-red saunas and steam rooms, cigar rooms, poker rooms, art galleries, sound-proofed home offices and even recording studios. “Literally anything is possible at St Moritz,” says Tim.

Wine cellar and stairs
Wine cellar and stairs

Perhaps the most noteworthy aspect of the development is the creation of a $30 million dollar penthouse to sit atop the first building, Pacific House. Boasting 650 square metres of internal space together with a generous 175 square metre terrace, the penthouse will have six bedrooms, a seven-car private garage, direct lift access, four living rooms, an in-home sauna, gym and a show-stopping pool that will sit wedged between two levels of the home.

Pool
Look at that pool! The penthouse promises to be Australia’s most expensive.

“This penthouse has been designed to be the best in Australia and arguably one of the best in the world. We initially designed the penthouse with a floorplan of over 1,300sqm and an even bigger price tag however the early feedback we have received from our local and international clientele was that a penthouse of this size would be too big even for them,” says Tim.

Occupying a space somewhere between a home and hotel, the complex will also feature 5000 square metres of private amenities and permanent staff that will provide residents with personalised and discreet service. “We want our buyers to feel like every day is a holiday as they are spoilt in ultimate luxury by the precinct’s loyal staff and are surrounded by a setting that rivals the best hotel and resort experiences in the world,” says Tim. One Powerball??

For more | Melbourne downsizers trade mansions for luxe apartments

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The Block

Buyer’s advocate dishes on The Block 2018 auctions

Greville Pabst inside The Gatwick
Greville Pabst inside The Gatwick

Buyer’s advocate Greville Pabst from PropertyDuo helped facilitate the purchase of four out of five apartments from last night’s Block auctions. Here he shares his thoughts on the auction results and the 2018 series overall.

What a transformation we have seen at the Gatwick Hotel this past few months. The famous hotel used to be dilapidated with its beautiful internal art deco features hidden away but thanks to The Block contestants, the Gatwick Hotel is now the crown jewel of St Kilda. The expensive revitalisation is kick starting the revival of the area’s former cool, edgy but elegant self.

Greville Pabst inside The Gatwick
Greville Pabst inside The Gatwick

It really is a fairy tale ending, and I felt quite emotional and proud to facilitate handing the keys over to three independent buyers who bought four of the five apartments – one buyer purchasing the two magnificent penthouses for what him and I agree was a bargain.

I was able to obtain four of the five Block apartments (something that has never been done in the show’s history), because of my deep understanding that selling and buying property is all about making the perfect match between the vendor and buyer. On behalf of buyers, I source and buy property that ticks all boxes for them – their functional needs and blue-sky dreams. For vendors, I advise on how to get a property ready for auction day by prepping and marketing the property to the right demographic, as I do for The Block contestants each season.

For example, the St Kilda buyer is a smart investor who knows St Kilda has a high rental yield, but is a cool yet elegant person so the furnishings and finishes needed to meet expectations. This year we also saw original owners wanting to retain a piece of their past. My job is to know who will fall in love with a property and help them secure their dream.

The two sisters for whom I bought apartment number two (Courtney and Hans’) took ownership from their mother in 1999, who had owned the hotel for 46 years. They worked at the hotel from the age of 14. They’re such strong women and what they’ve done for the community is outstanding. I am honoured to have represented them. We agreed that they had to have an apartment that faced Fitzroy Street, where all the action is in St Kilda and the original street address of the Gatwick Hotel. This was the one that was the real Gatwick for them which is why they didn’t want the penthouses, because they’re new.

Greville inside one of the apartment terraces
Greville inside the terrace designed by Hayden and Sara

Apartment one has the dream kitchen, a space that means there is no such thing as too many cooks in the kitchen. My client is in love with the large dining and living room and celebrated the purchase that will return exceptional capital growth.

And who doesn’t want to own not one but two penthouses. Congratulations to my buyer, those rare expansive terraces are going to host many fun and memorable moments and will always be extremely desirable and grow in value as the views are ‘unblockable’.

Defying the current market, contestant’s expectations were certainly exceeded. It’s great when we see everyone win. My buyers absolutely felt like winners too.

Greville is CEO and executive chairman of WBP Group and one of the buyer’s advocates on The Block. He is a regular commentator on Sky News and the daily papers such as Herald Sun, the AFR and The Australian, helping everyday Australians make better property decisions.

All our Block coverage

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Architecture Design Interviews

Melbourne downsizers trade mansions for luxe apartments

Lounge room
Lounge room

It’s a movement we’ve noted before but it seems that affluent Melbourne downsizers can’t get enough of the bespoke, architecturally designed apartment trend and this gorgeous new example again proves why.

Lounge and kitchen
One of Melbourne’s new luxury ‘Millswyn’ apartments

Designed by prominent architect Rob Mills and located in South Yarra’s Domain precinct, each of the ten ‘Millswyn’ residences features  all the conveniences of a traditional home but in a low-maintenance apartment setting. Each residence boasts a private lock-up garage and landscaped courtyard, soaring 3.2 metre ceilings, Italian marble and a 25 square metre walk-in wardrobe. And with that line-up, who wouldn’t want to downsize?

Lounge room
Lounge room

“Space is the first and foremost luxury of Millswyn. What makes this project exemplary is its sense of scale. There is an order, a structure and a hierarchy – everything is in its place,” says architect Rob Mills of the boutique development that is nestled among South Yarra’s leafy streets inside an original Victorian Italianate mansion.

Millswyn exterior
Millswyn exterior

“When entering a Millswyn home, your eye flows over the surfaces and leads uninterrupted to the landscape outdoors. It’s a sensory experience that is visual and acoustic. It’s the grand sense of space that is of the utmost importance,” says Rob of the apartments that boast internal areas ranging from 207-299 square metres and external areas from 26-99 square metres. Incredibly, the largest master bedroom is a significant 30 square metres which is half the size of an average two bedroom apartment!

Kitchen
The kitchen features rare Arabescato Vagli marble throughout

Retaining much of the original building’s heritage façade, the apartments have been cleverly designed with privacy in mind too. “Residents benefit from complete privacy – each home stands on its own, with a private entryway and windows that face out on to secluded courtyards,” says Rob.

Millswyn terrace
Terrace

Bedroom
Bedroom

The project has been developed by Pask Group who identified a gap in the market. “Families and downsizers who demand luxury and space want the best of both worlds; the size and scale of a traditional home, with the convenience, location and amenity of an apartment. Millswyn’s position in the tightly held Domain Precinct offers this, being just minutes from Melbourne’s CBD and the Botanical Gardens, while retaining the sense of privacy, peace and community of one of Melbourne’s premier suburbs,” says Pask managing director Dean Pask.

Dining
Dining room

Bathroom
Bathroom

All of this luxury doesn’t come cheaply of course. Apartments at Millswyn start from a cool $4.095 million and are available now.

For more | More luxury Melbourne apartments

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House Tours

Hotel-inspired living at The Evermore in Melbourne

Referred to as a 6-star retreat and a “statement in hotel-inspired living” I was expecting big things when I peeked inside Landence Group’s first Australian project, The Evermore.

Situated in Melbourne, straddling the boundaries of Southbank and South Melbourne, the apartments have a price-point that’s sure to get fellow Sydneysiders excited! With 199 apartments now on the market, prices start at $399,000 for a one-bedroom, $635,000 for a two-bedroom and $1.26 million for a three-bedroom.

The standout has to be the entire floor of leisure rooms envisioned by internationally acclaimed architects, Hayball. There’s the 14.5 metre open-air pool with sun lounges and lush hanging gardens, plus a state of the art gym. For the less active, a Gold Class style cinema awaits, as well as lavish private dining rooms surrounded by elegantly crafted furniture. And last but not least are the lush tropical gardens interspersed throughout the space.

Into the apartments and the luxury continues. The kitchens feature natural stone, timber and copious storage, with the latest in Miele appliances. The bathrooms are ample with brass tapware, while timber floors grace the living areas and warm, woollen carpets feature in the bedrooms.

On site display suites are open every day from noon to 4pm or by appointment.

For more information

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Designers House Tours The Block

The Block’s Shannon Vos styles new Sydney apartment complex

I’ll admit I rolled my eyes when I heard Harris Park was dubbed the Surry Hills of the west. That’s a super trendy inner city suburb for those unfamiliar with Sydney. But checking out the display apartment for Charlie Parker, a boutique, residential tower in the leafy suburb of Harris Park, well it’s fair to say the suburb is getting cool!

Inspired by the art-deco era, the visually impactful, curved Charlie Parker building by Coronation Property is the brainchild of award-winning architects Francis-Jones Morehen Thorp (fjmt), while on the inside, interior styling is courtesy of Shannon Vos of VOSCREATIVE, the 2014 winner of The Block: Glasshouse.

With furnishings by GlobeWest, Shannon had raw luxury in mind when presented with his design brief, think tribal trends, rustic timbers and plenty of natural textures. “We have endeavoured to highlight the building’s beauty and pay homage to its strengths,” explains Shannon. “We have infused the interiors with subtle notes of playfulness and whimsy throughout, built upon excellent workmanship and the best in planning and design.”

Comprising of 111 apartments, Charlie Parker will span 22 storeys and will include an open-air pool and gym on the terrace level. Charlie Parker – aptly named by the two streets it is positioned on, Charles and Parkes Street — will also incorporate a high-end residents’ lounge, open-air pool, gymnasium, a relaxation area and landscaping by award-winning landscape designer Jamie Durie.

Harris Park is already known for its unique eat street, eclectic bars and cafes, as well as its superb connectivity. Charlie Parker is only minutes from Parramatta and Harris Park train stations, while the new light rail station for Harris Park will be situated directly across the road from the building.

Prices for apartments at Charlie Parker start from $475,000 for a one-bedroom suite, $567,000 for a one-bedroom residence, $785,000 for a two bedroom and $898,000 for three bedrooms, with two four-bedroom penthouses also available, with price on application.

The Charlie Parker display suite is now open Thursday to Sunday from 11am to 4pm, located at level 1, 8 Phillip Street, Parramatta.

For more information | Most homes we love

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Designers Expert Tips Styling

9 tips for creating the ultimate apartment interior

You can sometimes feel limited when you live in an apartment, but while you may compromise on space, you don’t have to compromise on style! 1788 Residences Double Bay is a new apartment complex that certainly doesn’t. Featuring 31 luxury apartments over five levels — above a ground-floor retail space — they were designed by Bates Smart. The team behind the luxury units share their top tips for creating the ultimate apartment.

Lighting: Atmospheric LED lighting, custom glass and metal feature pendants, as well as wall lights in unexpected places like vanities and corridors, brighten rooms and open the space.

Coffee table: Having a statement coffee table in the living room will bring the entire space together. Don’t leave the table empty; place coffee table books, trinkets or even a statement gold statue on it, as seen in 1788 Residences.

Scents: Candles create a welcoming environment. Place a few in the living room and on your bedside table. For the ultimate indulgence, cluster candles. It even works with soaps and fragrances. Place your favourites on a golden tray and put it in your bathroom.


Flowers: Having fresh flowers in your apartment will not only add beauty but also boost your mood and improve productivity. Experiment with different kinds of flowers, but stick to the one colour palette.

Fixtures and finishes: True luxury is not merely about things that you see but the way things feel. It’s about the weight of the door, the perfect function of the hinges and the inside of the cupboard that is as beautiful as the outside. With fixtures and finishes, try to prioritise quality.

Styled corners and vignettes: Create beautiful vignettes without cluttering the room. Place a lamp, leather chair and marble table with a candle in the corner of your bedroom – perfect for reading before bed.

Walk-in wardrobe: Play with height in your walk-in wardrobe with designer boxers. Utilise the boxes to create levels and dimensions.

Colour palette: Keep the colours throughout the apartment consistent. The colour of your furniture should complement the fixtures and finishes.

Texture: Use different textures throughout the apartment to ensure the room is cosy and welcoming, rather than cold and sterile. For great visual contrast add a rug in your bedroom and a couple of cushions on the sofa.

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House Tours

Gemma Peanut shows us around her new Sydney home

Today’s tour is the first home of actress-turned-photographer Gemma Peanut and her husband Matt. Like many young Sydney couples, they missed out on several apartments before securing this one, on the lower north shore. “Searching for any home is a path paved with excitement and heartbreak,” the former Neighbours actress says. “We missed out on a few places we loved but were big believers that the home you end up with was always meant to be!

“I definitely didn’t fall for it instantly; my eyes widened at the opportunity and potential to convert it into something wonderful. I think the reason we were able to secure it was because it was so poorly presented for sale that many people were turned off. It would’ve looked like a lot of work to most but to me it looked like one hell-of-a fun project to sink my teeth into.” Smart buying indeed!

Gemma Peanut

The 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom, top floor apartment is in a small block of 11. On getting the keys, aside from feeling “like my bank account had been brutally violated,” Gemma felt overwhelmed with excitement. “Getting on the property ladder started to feel like an impossible dream in Sydney. We were elated when we finally signed the papers to our new baby. I don’t know if this is a common reaction, but a few weeks after the excitement of being home owners wore off, the reality of the huge job ahead of us started to sink in and nerves and anxiety about our renovations started to kick in.”

New bathrooms

The renovations took 4.5 months, during which time, the couple lived with her parents. “We gutted the entire apartment and started over. We removed all the bathroom tiles, built in wardrobes, carpet, the works. We also removed one wall to open up the kitchen into an open plan living room and kitchen. Most 1960s building have kitchens hidden away in a tiny room and I’m a sucker for lots of light and open space. That was never going to work for me. Plus, when I entertain friends, I like to be in the kitchen prepping a meal and still be able to hang out with everyone.”

The couple wisely ensured they’d be able to remove the wall before signing on the line to buy the place as it was a potential deal breaker. Then Gemma got to work with a very clear vision in mind, with Matt giving her free rein on all design decisions, provided she stayed within their agreed budget. “The greatest challenge was sticking to the budget but I enjoyed this challenge. It forced me to be resourceful and really sniff out those deals. There were certain things we splashed out on and then found ways to save. It’s all about striking that balance of affordable mixed in with fancy.”

Removing that kitchen wall undoubtedly made the biggest impact, allowing much more light in. “I’m a light junkie,” says Gemma. “I work from home and need to be flooded with light constantly for my own mental health. So that wall removal was the ultimate game changer.”

BEFORE: The former, closed off kitchen

BEFORE: The old, cluttered dining room

PROGRESS: Kitchen wall down!

Now it’s finished and furnished, Gemma describes the space as calming, modern and homely. “Many friends have come over and said it feels soothing and relaxing. I would say my interior style is clean and modern with a sprinkle of bohemian. Matt self-nominated to have zero say in the interior styling of our apartment but he surprisingly dug his heels in on one topic: carpet. That was the only time he piped up. I wanted to go for a light grey/oat coloured carpet and he passionately disagreed. He wanted a dark grey. And seeing as I didn’t have many battles to fight, I let him win the carpet battle. And since moving in, I have to take my hat off to him. The darker carpet is much more practical and contrasts nicely with our bright white walls and bed linen.”

First time homeowners Gemma and Matt

Being that she works from home, creating the perfect space was even more important to Gemma, who has carved out an impressive career as a photographer over the last few years, also running a popular online photography course. “I have a desk but I tend to move locations throughout the day. I’m fidgety so I’ll hop from working at my desk to my dining table to the kitchen island and then tend to end the day working on the couch. I’m sure all this shifting is terrible for my back but I’m incapable of sitting still and staring at the same wall for hours on end.”

Gemma recently launched a print shop too, selling some of her favourite photos as high quality art. “I’ve always followed my heart. I was that girl who knew her mind and my parents didn’t stand a chance in hell of guiding me towards a sensible and risk-free career. I’ve always been a believer that you will spend a giant chunk of your life working so you may as well love what you do. And I’ve been fortunate enough to explore all my creative passions and work within them with ease (although never void of a lot of hard work, blood, sweat and tears). Transitioning to a business owner required a mammoth mental shift. I had to learn blind confidence and really back myself and belief that I could do it. There were a lot of growing pains along the way but I wouldn’t change a thing!”

Gemma loves art on her own walls too. “Art is where your can really express yourself and overtly share your personality. I like to make a statement, which is why my print shop offers large size prints with frames. I like people to solidly commit to my photography and go for something that takes up a lot of real estate and becomes a statement piece that can’t be ignored.

“My favourite is called Wild Love. It’s a picture of a maternal monkey breastfeeding her young. It brings such a grounding and earthy energy to my home. You can also walk straight into my apartment and completely understand my undying love for our natural environment. I love bringing the outside world inside. Hence all the indoor plant babies.”

With her renovating adventure now at an end, Gemma’s best advice from the experience is to pick a builder you like and trust. “You will spend a lot of time communicating and negotiating with them, so it’s important that you get on well and trust that they share your vision.

“My next big tip would be to stick with neutral tones when it comes to your kitchen and bathroom. You can express your love of colour through soft furnishings. Interior colours and styles move in waves and trends. It’s much easier to replace a pink cushion than it is to replace pink bathroom tiles.

“My last tip would be to plan lighting way ahead of time. This is something I wish I’d done sooner. The infrastructure needs to be set right at the start and isn’t something you can easily add in later. I wish I pre-empted that I might like a pendant light in my bathroom. Suddenly the bathroom was done and it was too late and too costly to add one.”