This penthouse refurbishment and addition in South Yarra is for a retiring couple based in Western Australia, with plans to split their time between Melbourne and Perth. The commission began as a small kitchen update, but soon became “the mouse that roared” when a more extensive refurbishment added value became evident.

The design focused on unravelling some awkward spaces within the original apartment layout and an upgrade to a tired interior after many years as a rental property. Works included a small extension over a second underutilised balcony at the rear of the apartment, which internally created key space-planning opportunities.

American Oak joinery and stone have been utilised throughout, the marriage of these two materials culminating in a carefully crafted, square island bench within the new kitchen. If required, two timber screens provide a sense of separation to the kitchen, sliding over a marble threshold to the living area. Custom timber grilles for heating and cooling are integrated into cabinetry, providing an additional layer of fine-grain detailing throughout.

The procurement of the project involved intensive cooperation with a multitude of stakeholders, authorities and an experienced builder to work through many of the statutory and logistical challenges associated with an extension to an occupied apartment building.

This refurbishment project also speaks to the practice’s interest in the upgrade of existing apartment stock as an important typology within Melbourne’s inner-city regeneration.

Awards

• Shortlisted - 2021 Houses Awards - Apartment or Unit Category

Photographer: Sean Fennessey