Forte Group's design-led approach to Nexus Apartments, Thomastown
Forte Group’s commitment to excellence goes beyond strategic site acquisition—its Nexus Apartments project is a true reflection of the location.
Designed by the award-winning Hachem Architecture in collaboration with Cornetta Partners, the development consists of two five-level buildings at 240 High Street, just steps from the town’s historic 1880s train station.
The proximity to the railway isn’t merely a convenience; it has been integrated into the design, enhancing both accessibility and the overall living experience.
Large, carriage-shaped windows further reinforce this connection, offering residents views that recall the romance of rail travel.
The architectural concept goes beyond aesthetics, incorporating practical considerations. The ground-level facade of the buildings is designed to reflect the flow of the railway, with the two structures appearing to slide past each other like trains on parallel tracks.
The transition from the exterior to the interior is marked by a careful blend of materials, creating a connection between the facade and the lobby’s textured design elements.
Inside, the apartments are designed to be both functional and a refuge from the busy world outside.
The interiors feature soft edges and bold shapes that tie into the overall architectural theme, with finishes and fixtures selected for their practicality and stylish appeal.
Large windows and expansive outdoor spaces allow natural light to flood the living areas, offering views of both the urban landscape and the surrounding suburban greenery.
The kitchen is equipped with premium Bosch stainless steel appliances, including a 60 cm four-burner gas cooktop, oven, and matching dishwasher, combining practicality with refined style.
A stone benchtop and splashback with laminate cabinetry and a single-bowl undermount sink complete the contemporary design.
The bathrooms maintain this high standard, featuring brushed finish fixtures, glass shower screens, and vitreous china basins. Floor and wall tiles create a streamlined, low-maintenance aesthetic.
The bedrooms are spacious, with timber or carpet flooring, built-in robes, and LED lighting that enhances the overall atmosphere.
The public space at the centre of the development enhances the sense of community. This bustling area, located between the two buildings, is designed as a dynamic hub where residents and visitors can gather.
Retail offerings on the ground floor will include cafes, with seating spilling into the open courtyard. The space is intended to evolve, with potential for events such as musical performances, pop-up bars, and art installations.
“As Architects and designers, we want to create places that endure. With Nexus, we think we’ve produced a landmark building that people will be happy to return to for years to come," Fady Hachem, Principal Director of Hachem Architecture, said.
The development’s location, with easy access to the Thomastown train station and key roads, ensures convenient movement between Melbourne’s CBD and the northern suburbs.
Nexus Apartments is on track to complete in early 2025.
