How Edition Office designed Milieu's 231 Napier Street, Fitzroy apartments
Melbourne-based architecture practice Edition Office has successfully captured the essence of luxurious simplicity in their latest project, 231 Napier Street. Designed in collaboration with development company Milieu, this collection of 11 exclusive apartments epitomises the modern urban lifestyle.
Edition Office's approach to architecture centres around the human experience, recognising that buildings are not just structures but living, breathing spaces that shape our daily lives and memories. With Napier Street, they have created a series of moments that unfold as occupants journey from the street to their homes, amplifying and revealing the nuances of everyday experiences.
The design of Napier Street pays homage to the rich history and distinctive character of Fitzroy, a vibrant neighbourhood in Melbourne. Every detail, from the relief patterns to the window and door arrangements, and even the rhythm of the facade, celebrates the essence of Fitzroy's terrace-house typology.
Nestled on a tranquil street in the heart of Fitzroy, 231 Napier Street enjoys a privileged location surrounded by cultural landmarks and commercial hubs. Bordered by Gertrude, Smith, and Brunswick Streets, the quiet pocket offers a haven from the bustling city while remaining connected to its vibrant energy. Milieu's commitment to enhancing neighbourhoods through design aligns perfectly with Edition Office's dedication to ambitious architecture, resulting in a building that harmoniously merges contemporary ideals with the historical context of the site.
Aaron Roberts, Director at Edition Office said they closely examined the materiality of Fitzroy's historic buildings, studying their relief patterns, window and door compositions, and the rhythmic arrangement of party walls that define the streetscape.
"This research became the foundation for our design, ensuring a strong connection with the surrounding context. The result is a building that proudly showcases its honest character, with raw concrete shells stacked upon each other to create a striking visual impact."
Beyond its exterior, 231 Napier Street reveals its true essence upon entering. Each apartment acts as a vessel, providing a sense of enclosure and protection within the bustling city. Visitors are greeted by an internal atrium enclosed in a perforated metal surround, allowing ever-changing light and air to permeate the common spaces.
Within the building's raw shell, a delicate timber inner skin envelopes the interiors, evoking a sense of understated luxury. The internal spaces have been thoughtfully designed to maximise natural light and airflow, with internal walls removed to create open, free-flowing areas.
The attention to detail is evident, with full-height glazing providing outside views that reinforce the sense of spaciousness, bespoke joinery offering ample storage, natural stone benchtops exuding timeless elegance, and stained timber flooring exuding warmth and sophistication.
Additional features such as brushed nickel tapware by Phoenix, wine fridges, and fireplaces further enhance the overall luxurious feel of each apartment.