Situated in East Melbourne’s prestigious neighbourhood, known for its historic charm and lush parks, this bespoke apartment lies within the iconic Tribeca building, the former Victoria Bitters Brewery. The Cellars and Middle Tower were converted into residences in the 1990s, while the Old Brew Tower now serves as a mixed-use space and museum, preserving the brewery’s heritage. Originally designed by Philippe Starck, The Stylesmiths interior designers have transformed this apartment with a blend of modern materials that honour the building’s rich history.
What began as a modest two-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment is now an expansive one-bedroom sanctuary tailored for a couple seeking an urban retreat to complement their country home. Enhanced with ample storage, a gourmet kitchen, and dedicated work-from-home spaces, the home interior design evokes a luxurious, hotel-inspired aesthetic that balances contemporary style with respect for the property’s historic character.
With a focus on textural finishes and understated luxury, the redesign maximises light and space, creating a warm, sophisticated ambiance. The open-plan layout seamlessly connects the kitchen, dining, and living spaces, with furniture and finishes carefully curated for harmony and style.
The heart of this urban escape is a spacious living area defined by an exposed brick wall, a tribute to the building’s industrial heritage. The warm tones of the brick pair beautifully with the sleek, cream-hued cabinetry and polished surfaces of the adjacent kitchen. The dining nook, with a wooden table and plush velvet chairs, sits adjacent to the brick, creating an inviting space enhanced by soft lighting and a patterned banquette in earthy tones.
The kitchen interior design features muted cabinetry and integrated appliances, creating a timeless, uncluttered look. An engineered travertine backsplash and countertops add subtle luxury, while floor-to-ceiling storage maximises functionality. Under-cabinet lighting softly highlights the travertine’s natural beauty, enhancing the kitchen’s cosy atmosphere.
A plush light grey sofa with autumn-toned cushions creates a cosy setting, complemented by vibrant teal swivel chairs and artwork by Elizabeth Shaw. Dark, wide-plank oak flooring grounds the lighter elements, adding depth and sophistication.
The bedroom, designed in soothing neutrals and earthy tones, is a calming retreat. The walls, in muted grey, provide a backdrop for landscape artwork by Peter Watts, while a plush beige headboard and dark timber nightstand add elegance. Floor-to-ceiling creamy curtains filter natural light, creating a bright yet private space.
In a palette of beige and cream, the bathroom interior design features engineered travertine on the walls and floors. A reed glass partition and black metal framing on the walk-in shower add a modern edge, while burnished brass fixtures complete the cohesive aesthetic. Discreet lighting around the floating travertine vanity creates a warm, inviting atmosphere.
