Already renowned for designing outstanding multi-residential architecture that responds to place and context, DKO has taken it one step further with Fitzroy Fitzroy.
Positioned at 421 Smith Street, in the heart of the highly desirable and eclectic suburb of Fitzroy, the new nine-level apartment building is contextualised through curation of local furniture and lighting. Home to townhouses and apartments, with retail on ground floor that faces Smith Street, the collaboration with local makers is most apparent in the private, resident-only Smith Club.
As a private amenity, exclusive to the residents, DKO’s Interior Design Director Michael Drescher saw the space as an opportunity to take design cues from the creative culture embedded in the suburb.
“For Fitzroy Fitzroy, the design ethos was driven by a response to the surrounding context. In particular, Smith Street and its eclectic mix of hospitality and retail offerings. For us, it was particularly important to expand on this character by showcasing the local creative culture. There are many creative and skilful individuals in Melbourne – not only do they push the boundaries on furniture design and production, but they also use their considerable expertise to create pieces known for their craftsmanship, strength and durability. By collaborating with local furniture makers, lighting designers and artisans, the spaces are rich with a sense of the local flavour,” shares Drescher on the design approach.
To bring layers of bespoke design quality, the Smith Club features a hand-picked selection of local design talent. The space will include lighting and armchairs from Jardan, furniture pieces from Grazia & Co including the Iva Stool, the Agent 86 curved sofa and a Reeno ottoman, alongside lighting from Rakumba.
Joining this illustrious list is a standout console and coffee table by local furniture manufacturer Momu. Momu is a family-run business, originally founded by Richard Gasking, and now run by his sons Marcel and Lec Gasking.
Momu’s Angelo Console is “inspired by 70s furniture” and expresses a sculptural form. The three-dimensionality is part of the brand’s approach to create pieces that marry form and function.
Both Drescher and the Gasking brothers agree that locally made furniture can have big impacts. “Building sustainably trickles down to every aspect of design and it’s an important part of the DKO ethos. The carbon footprint from shipping furniture internationally is high and one of the main contributing factors to waste and expenditure of emissions. When you shop locally, things are made-to-order, so there is less waste, which also reduces unnecessary expenditures and emissions,” says Drescher.
On the trickle-down effects of buying Melbourne-made and designed furniture, Lec and Marcel add that it means, “Less carbon miles! Lower carbon footprint. More jobs for locals. Looking after your local economy. Using local suppliers. Knowing who you are buying from and enjoying the purchasing process. The list is long!”
The display suite for the project is currently open, and Drescher confirms the tangibility and tactile nature of seeing the pieces in real life is an amazing drawcard, “In this digital age, it’s refreshing to be able to interact with an object or piece of furniture in real-time.”
DKO
dko.com.au
Momu
momu.com.au
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