After a couple of years living in a tiny Fitzroy studio, Kelly Cloake was craving a change of scenery, and a little bit more space.
At the same time, well-regarded Melbourne property developers Milieu and Neometro announced they were partnering to develop a new apartment building in Brunswick.
Having always lived in ‘older places with a lot of character,’ Kelly was initially hesitant about buying a new apartment, especially one in an off-the-plan development.
What won her over was the building’s location, balcony, and its brutalist-inspired design by Fieldwork architects.
There was also the opportunity to make small interior modifications, such as changing the tile pattern on the kitchen splashback.
‘The brutal concrete design, high ceilings, and incredible acoustic treatment between apartments really sold me,’ Kelly says.
‘I decided to stick with a studio as I love their simplicity and flexibility and endless rearranging possibilities.’
The contemporary architecture of the building turned out to be a fantastic backdrop for Kelly’s eclectic wares and predominantly timber furniture, including the freestanding kitchen island made using an old printing press.
Some of these pieces have stayed with Kelly for years, but for the most part, the home is in a constant state of flux.
She explains, ‘Good storage is of course handy, but I find that owning less is really the key. I’m a bit of a ruthless declutterer!
‘As much as I love to hunt for that perfect vintage item, I also love to pass things on. It’s always a life in motion.’
The items she’ll never part with are the sentimental artworks made by friends, and an embroidered Patti Smith artwork by Nicole O’Loughlin originally displayed in the Alabama Hotel in Hobart that Kelly used to own.
Kelly has now lived in inner-city Melbourne for five years. She feels at home in Brunswick’s diverse community, with public transport and great food on her doorstep of her apartment.
Living in a well-designed, new building is just the cherry on top!
‘Having modern luxuries like double glazing has really sold me on being in a new-build!’