Well before colourblocking was back in fashion, we used the technique for our own 4-storey unit in a development we designed. As it was a development in an ex-industrial area, that was just beginning to gentrify, it was built using economical materials. Blocks of tiles and paint colour wrapping up walls and over ceilings were used to define and enliven.

We got together with a builder, plumber, and electrician to develop a long narrow single-house site into 4 tall townhouses. Originally we were going to sell them all but decided we liked the area. Even though we designed it for sale we designed it to suit people like us; urban creatives. We chose the front unit so we could have our architect's office downstairs and live above.

Photography: Jane McDougall