Customised and Compartmentalised – Elsternwick Penthouse by Office Alex Nicholls and Ewert Leaf

A combination of two separate properties, Elsternwick Penthouse is a generous family home that suits its multigenerational occupants. Office Alex Nicholls works with Ewert Leaf’s original design to sculpt a distinct living arrangement where colour and compartmentalisation are key to creating connections throughout.

The form of Elsternwick Penthouse is a combination of two independent homes within a large apartment building. Originally designed by Ewert Leaf, the reconfiguration of the architecture sees Office Alex Nicholls expand the proposed areas through a clever utilisation of space. Located in Elsternwick, an inner suburb of Melbourne, the transformed penthouse sits atop a series of other residences and, as a key part of the brief, allows for the cohabitation of a multigenerational household. Easing the flow of movement throughout was essential and through a series of intentional gestures an openness is felt and enhanced within.

Located in Elsternwick, an inner suburb of Melbourne, the transformed penthouse sits atop a series of other residences and, as a key part of the brief, allows for the cohabitation of a multigenerational household.

Divided into three main sections, the home is approached with a clear sense of order. Delineating the space is a library, a circulation element that sits boldly between levels. Outlining the stair that connects the levels, the library not only makes for a beautiful display, but provides ample storage. The second main element is the adaptable nature of the kitchen, with its harmonising colours, textures and finishes. Although restraint lies in the linear nature of the joinery composition, it remains highly functional whilst softly defining the spaces. Lastly, the addition of oculus forms in the ceiling draws natural light in from above, allowing shadows and light to move throughout the interior during the day.

In personalising the home, allowing for individual expression and flexibility over time remains key to the continuing sense of relevance and adaptability. Whilst the various personalities of the owners may differ, the openness of the spaces, together with the use of colour, are grounded in a base of rich, warm timber tones.

Whilst the various personalities of the owners may differ, the openness of the spaces, together with the use of colour, are grounded in a base of rich, warm timber tones.

With the added benefit of being self-contained and accessible via an elevator, Elsternwick Penthouse accommodates to the needs of occupants from all walks of life. Office Alex Nicholls overlays the penthouse with a light sense of separation whilst integrating flexibility to allow the home to adjust to the changing needs of the owners over time.