In the vibrant heart of Melbourne, an apartment within a building steeped in history has undergone a stunning historic renovation. Originally built in 1893 as the Victorian Railway Administration Office, this historic structure was converted into a modern residential space in 1997. Now, it hosts 240 apartments and the luxurious Grand Hotel.
One particular apartment within this landmark building showcases a remarkable blend of historic charm and contemporary design, demonstrating how an old building can be revitalized to meet modern living standards.
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Redefining Space and Light
The apartment’s original design was somewhat compartmentalized, with a bedroom enclosed by low walls and a kitchen relegated to a dark, isolated corner. The transformation aimed to address these limitations by reimagining the space to enhance natural light and create a more open and inviting atmosphere. By removing the low walls and relocating the kitchen to the center of the open-plan living area, and moving the bedroom to the darker corner, the redesign ensures that every part of the apartment benefits from the abundant daylight that streams through its single northwest-facing window.
This strategic reorganization not only maximizes natural light but also creates a sense of spaciousness and flow within the apartment, a crucial factor in enhancing the overall living experience.
A Kitchen That Doubles as Art
Upon entering the apartment, the kitchen immediately captures attention. To the right, a full-height unit houses essential kitchen appliances like the fridge and pantry, while also incorporating a small nook with coat hangers, an umbrella stand, and additional storage. This clever design ensures that everyday essentials are neatly organized and easily accessible.
The kitchen itself, centrally located in the open-plan space, is designed to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing. It features a white cooktop that seamlessly blends with the benchtop, creating a clean, gallery-like appearance. The benchtop, made from Corian, is an engineered material that provides a continuous surface, integrating the sink and vanity into a cohesive design. This choice not only enhances the visual appeal but also ensures durability and ease of maintenance.
Living and Dining with Flexibility
Central to the living area is a versatile L-shaped lounge that faces a TV credenza. This piece of furniture is not just a TV stand but also extends to provide integrated dining seating. The design of the TV unit cleverly incorporates additional storage space, maintaining the room’s sleek and uncluttered appearance.
A custom-designed flexible table adds to the apartment’s versatility: it can be used as a round table for everyday meals or expanded to accommodate larger gatherings, making it ideal for hosting family and friends.
This thoughtful design ensures that the apartment remains functional and stylish, catering to both everyday living and special occasions.
The Bedroom: A Sanctuary of Warmth
The bedroom, now situated in the former kitchen space, has been thoughtfully redesigned to create a warm and inviting retreat. A timber nook delineates the sleeping area, adding a touch of warmth and elegance. This nook is housed beneath a timber arch ceiling that mirrors the building’s original restored archways, creating a visual connection to the building’s historic past. Additionally, the timber archway acts as a sound barrier, providing extra noise insulation from the nearby train line—a practical consideration in this urban setting.
Full-height mirrors and built-in wardrobes enhance the sense of space and functionality, while bedside nooks provide convenient storage solutions. The queen-size Murphy bed, cleverly hidden behind a Fuji mirror in the working area, exemplifies smart design. It maximizes space without sacrificing style, ensuring that the bedroom remains both practical and aesthetically pleasing.
Innovative and Space-Saving Features
The use of lighting in the apartment is another standout feature. Indirect up-lighting creates a soft, warm glow throughout the space, enhancing its inviting atmosphere. This design choice not only adds to the apartment’s comfort but also highlights the careful attention to detail that defines the renovation.
The Secret Bathroom and Efficient Design
Accessed via a discreet door next to the kitchen, the bathroom is a marvel of efficient design. The kitchen’s benchtop seamlessly flows into the bathroom, forming the vanity and concealing the toilet. This integration not only optimizes space but also maintains the apartment’s cohesive design. The bathroom also houses laundry facilities and a cleverly positioned hot water unit mounted halfway up the ceiling, further maximizing space.
Embracing Sustainability and Storytelling
Repurposing this historic renovation addresses contemporary housing needs while preserving Melbourne’s architectural heritage. The transformation of this apartment demonstrates a commitment to sustainable design, blending the old with the new to create a living space that respects the past and meets the needs of today’s urban dwellers.
In this unique Melbourne apartment, history and modernity coexist in a harmonious blend. The renovation not only enhances the living experience but also honors the building’s rich history, offering a perfect example of how thoughtful historic renovation can revitalize historic spaces for contemporary use.
- Project Name: Small Grand Apartment
- Architect: Tsai Design
- Source: Never Too Small
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