Modern Opulence – East Brisbane Residence by Greg Natale

A modern palazzo, East Brisbane Residence draws from the drama and opulence of traditional Italian estate residences to form a riverfront home of similar grandeur. Greg Natale layers the interior with textures and tactile elements that heighten the lived experience and act to engage curiosity.

Looking out over the adjacent river, East Brisbane Residence offers connections that ground the home to its location. In referencing the traditional, large palazzo homes of Italy, the team wanted to emphasise the bonds the owners had to the Mediterranean. The home was reworked to become uniquely personal and outwardly connected and is defined by its form, large scale and openings to the surrounding environment. Greg Natale inserts a series of rhythmic arched glass and steel windows at the home’s façade – a geometric approach that is reflected internally.

Greg Natale inserts a series of rhythmic arched glass and steel windows at the home’s façade – a geometric approach that is reflected internally.

East Brisbane Residence is a celebration of its architectural components and the surrounding natural offerings. With an appreciation for the outdoors, the home has an embedded focus on the immediate environment, funnelling traffic to outside areas and framing views of the surrounds from every space. Lofted ceilings and full-height glazing connect inside and out, whilst large glass doors encite a free-flowing movement across the boundary edges of the building.

Repeating an arched shape throughout the home, walkways and openings are a juxtaposition of soft curves, crisp edges and diverse materiality. Whilst a heavy saturation of colours and contrasting elements convey a bold approach to interior decoration, the use of wallpaper, custom artworks, lighting and furniture add playful and artful moments. As a result, each room emerges with an individual sense of identity.

East Brisbane Residence is a celebration of its architectural components and the surrounding natural offerings.

Through the combination of natural and varying stones, rich velvet textures, fluted joinery and a measured balance of space, East Brisbane Residence epitomises its Italian muse. Greg Natale ensures a longevity through the classical references used and by ensuring the home seamlessly integrates with the landscape to facilitate an outdoor lifestyle.