Middle Burke

by C&K Architecture

C&K Architecture‘s Middle Burke Apartments were designed to mimic elements from their environment whilst maintaining a prominent presence in the community.

Located in prestigious Melbourne suburb of Camberwell, the Middle Burke Apartments were designed to convey a level of sophistication and opulence that would elevate the property to a premier status. The client (Property Developers JD Group) facilitated the creation of quality building that placed unique emphasis on fine detailing.

A detailed site analysis was performed to determine existing conditions and the neighbourhood layout. Four individual sites of conflicting architectural forms needed to be amalgamated into one. C&K Architecture’s goal was to significantly improve the composition and appearance of the site through the provision of an attractive contemporary built form whilst respecting the existing character of the area.

Conveniently located at the corner of Middle and Burke Roads and south of the bustling Camberwell Junction, a corner position justified a larger and more dominant building. Meeting a requirement of the client brief, the building was conceived to stand out at the base of the hill.

Boldly articulated, Middle Burke by C&K Architecture has been designed to mimic elements from its environment whilst maintaining a prominent presence. Floor to ceiling windows and open balconies flood each space with natural light, while a neutral palette balanced by quality timber offers a sophisticated and timeless aesthetic.

Interpretive of emerging development in the area, a mix of finishes including Alucobond and steel mesh cladding, concrete (painted finishes), and glazing added variety and interest whilst softening the external appearance. The unique full pre-cast façade and strengthening of the walls answered the brief which required a more solid look and weighty feel. The regular forms and modulation of the front façade interact seamlessly and harmoniously with commercial buildings nearby, and respect the rhythm of built form in the local landscape.

Robust vertical and horizontal elements were also applied, providing strong articulation. The use of a mix of materials, horizontal treatments and balconies / windows meant that from the streetscape one could easily visually distinguish the various levels. To soften overlooking vantage points for neighbouring residents, raised garden beds were employed in rooftop terraces to create a natural visual screening and enhance the vista.

The team at C&K Architecture were committed to making the project environmentally sustainable. Many sustainability initiatives were successfully adopted including solar boosted hot water systems, solar panels, high efficiency ducted reverse cycle air conditioners, high levels of building sealing and low VOC paints. Modern mechanical and electrical systems were installed to minimise energy consumption. Captured water from rainwater storage tanks is reused in the irrigation systems and commercial toilets with an estimated saving of 100,000L per year. Refuse disposal was also implemented whereby tenants use shared rubbish chutes.

Ultimately the Middle Burke Apartments project represents a significant improvement to the appearance of the site through exemplary architectural design by providing a modern yet classic built form that is respectful of the site’s broader context.

The Middle Burke Apartments were designed to convey a level of sophistication and opulence that would elevate the property to a premier status.

The design by C&K Architecture provided a modern yet classic built form that is respectful of the site’s broader context.