Restrained Functionality – Darling Point Apartment by Ricci Bloch

Through considered and measured insertions, Darling Point Apartment combines the need for a layered planning approach and flexible functionality at its core. Ricci Bloch realigns the existing layout and proportion through a pared back and restrained lens to capture the home’s exceptional views of Sydney Harbour.

While not every Sydney apartment is endowed with harbour views, it could be argued the ones that do have an obligation to align themselves with said views as much as possible. While located on one of the lower floors of an existing art deco building originally conceived in the 1960s, Darling Point Apartment is elevated well enough to have outward facing views that firmly capture its position in the heart of Sydney. With a light touch, the resulting alterations are focused on increasing the internal amenity of the home and its connection to its view, while embedding moveable functionality that supports the daily changing program of its owner. Ricci Bloch resultingly combines a simplified approach of clarity of purpose and a well-considered refinement to propose the ideal foundations for the combined living, working and entertaining environs.

Through reworking part of the internal vertical elements that divide the home, greater flexibility was created.

Owner-built, Darling Point Apartment spans 65sqm, and within its prevailing outer walls there existed minimal opportunity to extend outward. The revised works therefore needed to occur internally and make clever use of integrated features. Through reworking part of the internal vertical elements that divide the home, greater flexibility was created. The additional area allowed for integrated joinery to form a hidden desk and study moment that can be opened up for use and hidden away as needed. The revised kitchen and bathroom take on similar approaches, maximising both storage and amenity, while offering frontages of calm order.

A light palette aims to emphasise the proximity to the ocean, while also increasing the proportions within. Through large openings and ensuring all furniture and joinery does not compete with the views, uninterrupted site lines allow visual connections throughout the home to the generous and surroundings vistas. As a keen sportsperson, the connection to the natural and dynamic nature of Sydney Harbour embodies a sense of energy and movement that was important for the home’s owner.

A light palette aims to emphasise the proximity to the ocean, while also increasing the proportions within.

Ricci Bloch has conjured Darling Point Apartment as a home founded on freedom and flexibility, while being a calm and restorative platform to watch the enviable natural setting beyond.