Hidden Gem – NoMad by Alexander &CO.

Defined by an unexpected calm, NoMad is a repurposed industrial space transformed into an introspective and dream-like retreat. Alexander &CO. layers textural softness and movement through a careful curation of iconic sculptural pieces, enlivening and filling the spaces with personality.

Despite its previous occupation, NoMad paves its own path as a refined and revitalised home among a contrasting outer shell. Primarily an interior reworking of the original space, the existing storage building is endowed a new chapter. By folding in new insertions that add a richness and textural quality to the volumes, zones are created that mirror a traditional residence, seeing furniture, lighting and artwork assemble in familiar scenes. By retaining the outer architecture, the industrial history remains, with the interior sitting as a unique and unpredicted resolve. Alexander &CO. carefully replans the spaces into an apartment with connection and lighting as key driving forces.

Despite its previous occupation, NoMad paves its own path as a refined and revitalised home among a contrasting outer shell.

Wanting to create their own urban retreat, the owners saw potential of the building and its centralised location within Sydney. As cities continue to grow and evolve, so too does the interconnection between their past and present. In a continuance of legacy, the industrial building typology provides a robust base for the daily functions of the home, whilst new insertions soften through texture. Alongside the existing windows, polished plaster walls combine with mosaic tiles and curving joinery and benchtop elements; hinting at the movement of spaces and enhancing a sense of flow, these non-linear gestures add a feminine touch, heightened through blush tones.

Mostly neutral, the base of the spaces connects through a shared warmth across each finish within the home, with autumnal tones combining with lush leathers, linens and cool metals. As a three-bedroom home, the existing outer shell remains as the connecter between inside and out, as well as the conduit for allowing access to natural light. Maintaining those openings and creating an open floor plan within also ensured that light was felt and carried throughout. As a contemporary pied-à-terre, the generous internal volume is well utilised with multiple spaces for more intimate settings as well.

Proposed as a residence with an ingrained gallery-like feel, NoMad is a welcomed addition and a creative exploration of adaptive re-use within inner city settings.

Proposed as a residence with an ingrained gallery-like feel, NoMad is a welcomed addition and a creative exploration of adaptive re-use within inner city settings. Alexander &CO. continues a sense of openness throughout, whilst also creating overlaid functionality, intimacy and connection.