Fitzroy House.

Fitzroy House by Jackson Clements Burrows (JCB) transforms a 19th-century bootmaker’s premises into a seven-storey mixed-use development that retains its architectural legacy while offering refined, modern living. Behind the preserved red brick façade, 34 apartments sit above a street-level restaurant and commercial tenancy, creating a vibrant addition to Melbourne’s inner north.

The project carefully balances heritage and innovation, integrating high-quality materials such as black marble, European oak and aged iron within a palette that respects the building’s industrial past. Generous 3.3 metre ceilings and arched windows amplify light and volume, reinforcing the building’s sense of place and character.

To manage thermal comfort and solar gain without disrupting the facade, JCB specified Warema E80 A6 S external venetian blinds from Shade Factor. These motorised blinds with 80mm rolled edge slats in a Flat White finish provide effective shading while remaining visually unobtrusive. Concealed within the facade, they support the building’s energy efficiency goals and maintain clean architectural lines.

Fitzroy House presents a thoughtful model for heritage adaptation, where sustainability, design coherence and liveability are addressed in equal measure.