Quay Charm

1st November 2017

See the Belle designed Forge apartment at Wharf’s Entrance by Mirvac. See the best design elements in this artist’s apartment.

Located in the Wharf's Entrance development by Mirvac in Melbourne’s Docklands, the Forge apartments were modelled on an artist’s studio.

What were the challenges of the space and how did you resolve them?

The Forge artists’ apartments are all quite long spatially. We took advantage of this to maximise the natural lighting with a connection to the street and centralised the utility core allowing greater flexibility in the use of the other spaces.

What are some of your favourite elements?

The wonderful expanse of polished concrete and large-format tiles which create a seamless connection, the generous ceilings giving a great sense of volume and not to forget the ‘gallery’ wall which is reminiscent of a true studio. All these elements play an important part to create the beautiful spatial quality in these apartments.

What informed the selection of fittings, finishes and fixtures?

We wanted the fittings, finishes and fixtures to be natural and tactile, paying homage to the character of this unique location

The interiors are a fine balance of materials and forms crafted with a raw edge and at the same time quite refined.
Living room
Bathroom and bedroom
Balcony

What inspired the selection of art and furniture?

Belle interior design editor Lucy McCabe styled the apartment, selecting the accessories, art and furniture. “I looked for key pieces from Coco Republic to anchor each zone, such at the ‘Brighton’ table in the dining area and the ‘Toledo’ sofa in the living room,” she says. “Because it’s an open-plan apartment I picked the rattan sofa that looks good from every angle. Continuing the wharfside theme, I chose contemporary Australian artworks from Scott Livesey Galleries that all have a synergy with the water.”

What’s the key to making this space home?

This apartment offers great flexibility and adaptability and the interiors can be tailored to the owner’s desires. It’s a real-life art canvas ready and waiting for the right person.

Modern kitchen
Forge Kitchen at Yarra's Edge

Mirvac acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Owners of the lands and waters of Australia, and we offer our respect to their Elders past and present.  

Artwork: ‘Reimagining Country’, created by Riki Salam (Mualgal, Kaurareg, Kuku Yalanji) of We are 27 Creative.