By Studio Del Castillo
Small Sensation
This Melbourne warehouse conversion proves that good things do come in small packages.
Industrial aesthetic meets city style in this converted Melbourne warehouse
This two-bedroom apartment has a new lease on life thanks to striking features such as the exposed brick walls, marble island bench and warm timber floors.
Yet it wasn’t always this visually appealing. Aside from the necessity for a practical outcome to service the couple’s changing lifestyle, there was a severe lack of continuity between exterior and interior and a severe lack of aesthetic direction. The homeowners embarked upon a renovation that resulted in a totally new apartment. We added a second bedroom, a second bathroom a new kitchen and laundry. All new furniture and window furnishings were designed, selected and supplied by our studio – Studio del Castillo.
We stripped away layers of the building to reveal the core strength of the building’s structure, then piece by piece, rebuilding with a more authentic intent that honoured a single-minded theme. The heritage red brick synonymous with Melbourne’s enviable warehouse conversions was key to all other selections made. We aimed to create a sophisticated version of an industrial interior without being too masculine.
We were inspired to keep an open plan kitchen that provided a perfect platform to create an ambient wine bar experience, where friends can gather around the raised island bench (suitable for up to eight people).
In a small home, light can be limited – yet not in an apartment with a design like this. Using clever spatial planning within a limited footprint, we have made better use of the natural light to penetrate other areas of the property and massively improve the residents’ livability.
"Penny and the team at Studio del Castillo are absolutely brilliant. I can't speak highly enough of their service from end-to-end. Their eye for detail and design and ability to capture our spoken and unspoken needs was spot on and we are so happy with our home. Studio del Castillo are highly, highly recommended!"
Yong & Chi
Photography: Tom Blachford
Penny Del Castillo is the creative mind behind Studio Del Castillo, a multi-disciplinary, award-winning interior design studio with offices in Melbourne and Noosa.
Penny draws inspiration from eclectic cultures throughout the world, while meticulously maintaining the balance between style and function. This allows Penny and her team to create environments tailored to the multifaceted needs of each client.
For the past twenty years, Penny del Castillo—backed by her team of daring creatives and innovative thinkers—has systematically created unconventional solutions to achieve one-of-a-kind results. Together, they have established a whole host of uniquely unforgettable luxury residences, hotels, restaurants, wellness retreats, and spas.
“We are passionate about creating functional spaces that reflect and enhance the lives of those fortunate enough to live, work, and grow within them,” says del Castillo.
“Every opportunity and every challenge allow us, as designers, to fulfil the brief for clients—to make that dream come true. A lot of the time, it’s [just] problem-solving.”
“I hear [the phrase] ‘it can’t be done,’ a lot. But I’ve spent over two decades standing up for clients to make sure they get exactly what they want.”
Despite setbacks, contrary opinions, and seemingly insurmountable odds, del Castillo and her team have consistently produced world-class results.
“When we ask the unexpected questions,” she explains, “infinite possibilities reveal themselves.”