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Sculpting the Future of Apartment Living – Fabbrica by Pace Development Group
An imaginative concept delivering adaptability for the modern-day inhabitant, Fabbrica is disrupting traditional conventions of apartment living in Melbourne’s inner-north suburb of Fitzroy. SJB reimagines a historic locale, designing a multi-level apartment building with many customisable options – down to the choice of interiors by either Winwood Mckenzie or Bergman & Co.
What distinguishes Fabbrica from other multi-residential buildings in the area is its tangible versatility and innate flexibility, which is a new concept in apartment living in Australia. Working in collaboration with Pace Development Group, the interior design studios have evolved two very different apartment aesthetics. Bergman & Co.’s aesthetic is defined by opulence and boldness whilst the Winwood Mckenzie apartments are restrained, sleek and minimalist.
The exterior façade of Fabbrica echoes its contemporary vision and reveals a sensitivity to Fitzroy’s industrial past. Positioned on a sought-after corner site between Johnston and Gore Streets, the building juxtaposes two distinct structures connected by an open-air industrial-style staircase and bridge. The old and the new are presented in equal measure – the Gore Street entrance is restored to its original heritage appearance whilst Johnston Street offers a contemporary stacked form featuring distinct balconies.
A considered material palette also draws inspiration from Fitzroy’s eclectic character. In an ode to Fitzroy’s industrial past and the many corner pubs that line its streets, board-marked concrete, green tiling and cobbled pavers feature throughout, complementing the retained brick façade. Contemporary additions include an open courtyard and hospitality space that connect inhabitants with the community, as well as a sustainability strategy – Fabbrica is a net-zero carbon building boasting a 7-Star NatHERS rating.
Though apartments have traditionally been associated with an impersonal uniformity, it is personalisation that lies at the heart of Fabbrica.
Though apartments have traditionally been associated with an impersonal uniformity, it is personalisation that lies at the heart of Fabbrica. One way this reveals itself is in the innovative, smart design features and additional customisation options that feature throughout the apartments. In each apartment, one will find a welcome station – or ‘life admin station’ – for charging phones and sorting keys. Other customisation upgrades include an integrated electric BBQ unit or Fabbrica’s custom Divan and clever storage solutions such as fold-down beds, allowing space and personalised layouts. Of course, this personalisation is further enhanced by having the choice of two different interior designers.
Perhaps one of the most telling features of Fabbrica’s innovation is its rooftop. Referencing what you would expect from a New York apartment rooftop, Winwood Mckenzie and Acre have created a rooftop with two distinct personalities – one half a relaxing space with a lawn, seating and an immersive garden, and the other half is a social hub with a casual lounge and dining area. For more intimate moments, there is a private dining room that overlooks the CBD featuring a curved kitchen island, waffle ceiling and glass-reeded sliding doors, as well as a shared work-from-home space that offers a peaceful, focused environment with a private working pod.
The exterior façade of Fabbrica echoes its contemporary vision and reveals a sensitivity to Fitzroy’s industrial past.
Endeavouring to create residences that embody a unique and characterful spirit, Pace Development Group collaborated with SJB to bring Fabbrica to fruition. An inspired re-imagination in the heart of Fitzroy, the home draws on the suburb’s past to inform its future, revealing a transformational design that fundamentally expresses what modern living is about. No longer are apartment blocks mere replicas – Fabbrica reminds us that apartment living has evolved into a desirable, accessible way of living and exemplifies Pace Development Group’s commitment to future-focused design.
