Woods Bagot recently designed Assembly Apartments in North Melbourne. Their approach to the residential development was to "carve into the block," creating four separate buildings on a human scale, rather than one large monolith.
With the smallest containing just 20 apartments and the largest only 43, the individual buildings are clad in concrete and metal with the many saw tooth roofed factory buildings in the neighbourhood creating a starting point for the façade aesthetic.
With sight lines drawn to the surrounding churches and schools, residents will be continually drawn to the leafy streets and parks nearby.
"We wanted to build on the history of North Melbourne, with its light industrial warehouses, as well as the neighbourhood's emerging sense of cool," commented Peter Miglis, Principal, Woods Bagot.
Building on North Melbourne's history, these warehouse-style apartments feature a strong industrial aesthetic, with the metal exterior providing a contemporary edge. Be it concrete, metal or glass, each junction is treated as paramount in the design.
The European-style courtyard creates a protective and private space all year round. Light filters into the apartments from the courtyard. To maximise this light, generous terraces combine with large picture windows. The light also plays on the metal, creating a striking kaleidoscope of colours throughout the day.
Overlooking the local neighbourhood and city vista beyond, the roof terrace provides an extension of the residents' living rooms. Complete with built-in seating and soft landscaping, the space has been 'carved' within the buildings' pitched roof line.
"Cities are growing and with increased densification the myth that bigger is better is being challenged," said Kate Frear, Principal, Woods Bagot. "With this development we were able to divide the built form to create a more human scale environment, focused on community and a connection to nature."
Exposed concrete ceilings beautifully complement rich timber floors while the open plan kitchen and living areas are loosely defined by ceiling shifts. The finishes used for the balconies extend to the periphery of living areas, blurring the division between indoors and out.
Streamlined joinery ensures a pared back contemporary aesthetic to provide a sense of spaciousness. Both materials and the colour palette are refined. Porcelain tiles create a simple canvas for the bespoke bathroom fittings.
Located on the edge of the city, bound by Courtney, Capel and Queensberry Streets, Assembly offers the convenience of city living, while still being connected to a vibrant local community.