Where nature meets artifice in South Yarra: A look at Elenberg Fraser's design of Rockley Gardens
Rockley Gardens, the completed boutique South Yarra apartment development, was designed to co-exist with the adjacent Rockley Gardens pocket park.
The MetaCorp development, at 339 Toorak Road, was designed by Elenberg Fraser and was shortlisted for the 2017 Australian Interior Design Awards in two categories: Residential Decoration and Installation Design.
Elenberg Fraser said the project navigates nature and artifice.
"The building and apartments enter into a dialogue with the leafy landscape next door, the gardens becoming part of the building itself."
Elenberg Fraser's dedication to creating a sensory experience is evident in the selection of materials and finishes for the apartments. Each material serves not only an aesthetic purpose but also adds a touch of luxury to the living spaces.
The 49-apartment project, in landscaping by Oculus, features a lush garlanded facade which softens the building's exterior.
The clever use of vertical gardens brings the neighbouring park into the building itself, while angled mirrors on the facade reflect the park's vegetation, blurring the lines between reality and reflection. This play of visuals creates an infinite image of green space, no matter where you are within the apartment or the park.
Straight plank Herringbone timber floors lead the way to expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, offering residents views of the surrounds, while bespoke pieces, such as locally crafted Articolo Lighting features throughout.
Rockley Garden’s proximity to a number of highly regarded institutions such as the Royal South Yarra Tennis Club, the South Yarra Library, Cinema Como and only minutes away from South Yarra's dining and shopping strip, wine bars, cafes and gourmet grocers.
The development is also well serviced by nearby tram links, while South Yarra Station is only a seven-minute walk from Rockley Gardens and the Yarra River a 10-minute stroll.